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THE 



46 

ILIAD OF HOMER 



FAITHFULLY TEANSLATED 



UNRHYMED ENGLISH METRE. 



F. W. NEWMAN. 



5 LONDON: 
WALTON AND MABEELY, 
UPPER GOWER STREET, AND IVY LAME, PATERNOSTER ROW. 
1856. 



^# 



LONDOJT: 
TUCKER AND CO., PRINTERS, 

PERRY'S PLACE, OXFORD STREET. 



PREFACE. 



If such a people as the ancient Greeks were at this moment 
existing in the Eastern Archipelago; and if an Englishman 
who had resided many years among them were faithfully to 
describe their manners and sentiments, the state of religion 
and of knowledge, the organization of society, and the arts of 
peace and war among them; — the book would probably be a 
universal favourite. Homer himself has done this, and done 
it with native simplicity and vividness. He sets us as in the 
midst of the most ancient Greeks. We may disbelieve, as in 
a modern novel, every individual fact ; yet from his poem, as 
from a good novel, the stranger will imbibe a perfect idea of 
the state of society. Homer is in truth to his reader better 
than the best book of travels into old Greece. 

Nor only so ; but by reason of the unbounded popularity of 
his poems with his countrymen, their influence over the Greek 
mind may be compared to the combined effect produced in 
England by the Bible and by Shakespeare. In discerning the 
mind of Homer, — as to its intellectual and moral tone, — we 
get discernment not into one Greek only, but into all the 
Greeks, of whom he is emphatically a noble type. In this 
respect, the substance of what he tells is often of less import- 
ance to us than the manner in which he tells it; and it 
becomes a first-rate duty of a translator to adhere closely to 
his manner and habit of thought, as also to his moral 
sentiments. 



iv PKEFACE. 

The weakest point of the Greeks, their absurd religion, has 
its interest and instruction in its eminently childlike simplicity. 
We see in this people (what may be called) the childish mind 
magnified, both as to intensity and duration; and through 
them we can trace step by step the wonderful changes of 
religious thought, from Homer to Pindar and to Plato or 
Aristotle : but to be familiar first with Homer, is the basis of 
this contemplation. 

It is to be added, that this poet wrote in a stage of the 
national mind in which divisions of literature were not recog- 
nized. Even the distinction of prose and poetry had not yet 
arisen. He is alternately Poet, Orator, Historian, Theolo- 
gian, Geographer, Traveller, jocose as well as serious, dramatic 
as well as descriptive. In this half-developed condition, each 
separate function is less perfectly performed than afterward ; 
yet the work, as a whole, has charms not easily attained by 
anything less comprehensive. Here, however, it suffices to 
warn the reader not to expect, or to wish, Homer to be 
always at the same high pitch of poetry. He rises and sinks 
with his subject, is prosaic when it is tame, is low when it is 
mean. To express this suitably, we need a diction sufficiently 
antiquated to obtain pardon of the reader for its frequent 
homeliness. 

The style of Homer [himself is direct, popular, forcible, 
quaint, flowing, garrulous, abounding with formulas, re- 
dundant in particles and affirm atory interjections, as also in 
grammatical connectives of time, place, and argument. In all 
these respects it is similar to the old English ballad, and is in 
sharp contrast to the polished style of Pope, Sotheby, and 
Cowper, the best known English translators of Homer. By 
general consent, Chapman's version is far more Homeric than 
these. In regard to diction, Dry den in part agrees with 
Homer, namely, in his love of strong and racy words. A 



PREFACE. v 

phrase can hardly be too homely for the true Epic style,, if it 
be but energetic and graphic. Those words only are to be 
rejected as mean which are also weak and petty. 

The problem presented to a translator is highly complicated, 
and he is constantly obliged to compromise. Even after he 
has chosen all his principles correctly, he is liable perpetually 
to miss in detail, from the delicacy of applying them : but if 
he choose his first principles wrongly, all is over : no skill can 
bring his work right. He may produce a splendid piece of 
varnish, as Pope has done ; or a vigorous poem, as Chapman ; 
but it will not so represent the original as the translation of 
a great poem ought. And here, the first matter of all, is, to 
select the metre; with which the style is intimately connected. 
The moral qualities of Homer's style being like to those of 
the English ballad, we need a metre of the same genius. It 
must be fundamentally musical and popular. Only those 
metres which, by the very possession of these qualities, are 
liable to degenerate into doggerel, are suitable to reproduce the 
ancient Epic. To say this, is to say, that our metre must be 
composed of systems of either four or three beats ; for it is 
of such lines that English ballads or ditties are composed. 
Indeed, musicians tell us that all simple melodies are formed 
in eight bars, — even what is called "the subject" in the most 
complicated pieces of Mozart or Beethoven, I imagine that 
the "Long Metre" of our Hymn Books, — (the metre of 
Walter Scott, by far the most Homeric of our poets,) — is in 
fact founded on this musical principle ; while our " Common 
Metre " is the same, with merely i ' a rest " at the end. How 
naturally one generates the other, is seen in Scott's own 
practice, who intermingles lines of three beats as a sort of 
close to those of four. The same thing appears in Greek 
anapaests, which close with a " parcemiac " verse. Indeed the 
Homeric line itself is composed of two shorter lines, with 



vi PREFACE. 

three beats in each,* and is undoubtedly founded on " ditty V 
or sing-song, like our own ballad. On the contrary, the verse 
with five accents, which Pope, Cowper, Sotheby use, is adapted 
only to the terse, polished, oratorical or philosophical poetry 
of a cultivated age. In such a metre (and peculiarly without 
rhyme) a high subject is necessary, and an artificial, if not an 
ornamental, style : even with tender sentiments, simplicity in 
it is not easily borne, unless there is something elevated or 
rare in the thoughts ; while to be homely and prosaic, even 
for a few lines, is offensive. Shakespeare knew this so well, 
that he chooses rather to break into plain prose, than put 
common thought into five-foot metre. Indeed with this metre 
the instinct of every translator at once sacrifices as inadmissi- 
ble all the repetitions of epithets, half lines and whole lines, 
which so characterize the Greek epic. So glaring a proof of 
the incongruity of their form might have suggested that the 
mischief must go far deeper, and that they sacrifice inner 
qualities of the original life, as well as external badges. The 
affinity of the five-foot metre for Latinized words, which the 
ballad rejects, is another criterion which of the two is suit- 
able to the Epic; for the entire dialect of Homer being essen- 
tially archaic, that of a translation ought to be as much Saxo- 
Norman as possible, and owe as little as possible to the 
elements thrown into our language by classical learning. • 

These considerations convinced me a priori that the English 
metre fitted to translate Homer's hexameter must be a long 
line composed of two short ones, having each either three 
beats or four beats. The nature of our syntax, which ha- 
bitually begins sentences with unaccented words, (such as 
And, Or, If, But, Eor, When, &c), farther proved to me that 

* Those who take interest in this subject, may find an elaborate analysis of 
it by my learned and acute colleague, Professor Maiden, in a paper read before 
the Philological Society of London, March 1852. 



PREFACE. vii 

the line must not be constrained to begin with an accent, as 
in the metres which we call Trochaic. It remained to inquire 
what should be its compass; and a series of trials showed, that 
it was best to compose the line of four beats added to three. 
Many passages of Homer can be got into an ' ' Alexandrine/' 
that is, into three and three; but I found that, first, this could 
not be kept up systematically, without becoming too terse; 
whereas the genius of Homer is to be loose and expansive : 
secondly, my metre could not be right, unless it would render 
also the polished hexameter of epigrams and epitaphs; but 
while " four and three " had compass enough for this, the 
"three and three" often failed entirely; next, I found that 
many even of the Homeric lines by no compression could be 
brought into the Alexandrine, and that beauty and effect was 
sometimes largely lost if it was impossible to render line by 
line; lastly, no long trial made it certain to me that the 
monotony of the Alexandrine is unendurable in a long poem, 
since the first part of the line has no facility of various sub- 
division. Such were the general arguments which forced me 
to believe four beats and three beats to give the elementary 
solution of my problem. 

But, beside this, I held it as an axiom that rhyme must be 
abandoned. Even to Chapman, with his Homeric genius, and 
a metre fundamentally good, it was impossible to let the 
Englishman know what Homer had said, and not obtrude on 
him what was Chapman's own : for, the exigencies of rhyme 
positively forbid faithfulness. Yet on abandoning rhyme, to 
which our ears are accustomed in the popular ballad, I found 
an unpleasant void, until I gave a double ending to the verse, 
i. e., one (unaccented) syllable more than our Common Metre 
allows. Having attained this result by an exhaustive process 
of argument and experiment, I found with pleasure that I had 
exactly alighted on the metre which the modern Greeks adopt 



viii PREFACE. 

for the Homeric hexameter, ever since they have abandoned 
the musical principle of quantity (or Time) as determining 
metre, and have betaken themselves to accent. Thus, while 
our Common Metre has 

The queen sits lone in Lithgow pile, 
and weeps the weary day ; 

my metre, as the modern Greek epic, runs : — 

They hied to go, as lions twain, 

amid the nightly darkness, 
O'er carcases and dusky gore, 

through weapons and through carnage. 

At the same time, I have occasionally varied the division, so 
as to throw a syllable more to the end of the first part ; thus : 

By far the wisest of the augurs, 
Calchas, son of Thestor. 

It need hardly be said, that the printing of such a couplet 
into a single line is merely for compactness. They still remain 
essentially two in one ; and until all readers are skilful in 
metre, it is safer to exhibit to the eye their duality, which my 
page is broad enough generally to allow. 

I am not so rash as to say that if freedom be given to rhyme, 
as in Walter Scott's poetry, — where the echo comes back 
sometimes in one, sometimes in two or even three, four lines, 
— a genius may not arise, who will translate Homer into the 
melodies of Marmion, and produce a faithful and far more 
delightful poem than can ever come forth out of the principles 
on which I proceed. But such geniuses are rare, and they 
generally prefer to employ themselves on original poetry. Sir 
Walter Scott, I believe, might have translated Homer nobly, as 
far as his talents were concerned ; but his very genius forbade 
him. At the same time, in many passages it is of much value 



PREFACE. ix 

to render the original line by line. To illustrate the principle, 
let the English reader consider the following stanza of Byron : 

The horrid crags by toppling convent crown' d, 
The cork-trees hoar that clothe the shaggy steep, 
The mountain moss by scorching skies imbrown'd, 
The sunken glen, whose sunless shrubs must weep, 
The tender azure of the unruffled deep, 
The orange tints that gild the greenest bough, 
The torrents that from cliff to valley leap, 
The vine on high, the willow-branch below, 
Mix'd in one mighty scene, with varied beauty glow. 

Manifestly, it would be better to translate these lines into 
prose, than into a metre which ran one line into another ; and 
a translator who had to turn these nine lines into twelve (or 
into six couplets,) would inevitably ruin the passage, whatever 
in other respects his skill. This is an extreme case ; yet the 
principle holds in Homer also. A stereotype Homeric line, 
which recurs again and again, must of course be completed in 
one line of the English ; as for instance, book i, 43, 68, 73, 
84, 130, &c. (and by the way, here also, rhyme is a fatal em- 
barrassment) ; but, as one specimen out of many, I may refer 
to the four lines, book i, 436 — 439, to show how desirable it 
may sometimes be to render line by line ; at which for the 
most part I aim. 

But I on no account tie myself slavishly to such a rule. 
I abandon it whenever the material is unfavourable. The 
English reader will discover the fact by the numbers added to 
the lines, which numbers are taken from the Greek text, and 
are intended to facilitate reference. They will show that five 
lines of the Greek often go into four lines of English, espe- 
cially in the battle scenes, and in other passages where a large 
number of inevitable Saxon monosyllables replace longer Greek 
words. 

In adopting the more antiquated style suitable to the sub- 



x . PKEFACE. 

ject, no English model can be followed; the attempt would 
cripple the translator and give no pleasure to the reader. Our 
real old ballad-writers are too poor and mean to represent 
Homer, and are too remote in diction from our times to be 
popularly intelligible. It is requisite for a translator to form 
his own style. I generally adhere to the principle which 
Aristotle commended in Euripides, as contrasted with iEschy- 
lus, viz., to use little strange diction, but impart elevation by 
the mode of combining known words. I am not concerned with 
the historical problem, of writing in a style which actually 
existed at an earlier period of our language; but with the 
artistic problem of attaining a plausible aspect of moderate 
antiquity, while remaining easily intelligible. Now, in doing 
this, I alight on the delicate line which separates the quaint 
from the grotesque. I ought to be quaint ; I ought not to be 
grotesque. Yet no two persons will agree, as to where the 
one ends and the other begins ; and in judging concerning 
a series of words, he who is for excluding one, and for retain- 
ing another, finds his decision to be precisely reversed by his 
neighbour. This is a difficulty which I cannot avoid. Unless 
I sacrifice a serious portion of my available vocabulary, — good 
Saxon words, which only a false taste counts ignoble, — I must 
retain many which one or other will avow that " he hates " ; 
and against hate it is useless to argue. The nature of the case 
makes me calculate, that even the man who most thoroughly 
agrees with my general principles, will diifer with me about 
special words ; for certain words have different associations 
and different recent histories with special minds. 

If any one wholly dislikes my translation, he has his easy 
remedy, — to keep aloof from it. But if any one accepts it as 
a whole, let him not think that he does a service to me or to 
the world by expressing his own distaste for special words, 
without suggesting better. For suggestions in detail, I shall be 



PREFACE . xi 

thankful ; and readers can always introduce their own improve- 
ments, for their own comfort, in their private copy of the book. 

Although the structure of my sentences is antiquated, I ven- 
ture on but few such words as Thomson in his " Castle of 
Indolence/' or even on some used by Walter Scott : and the 
inversions which I employ are less Latinized than those of 
Milton. My inversions are not mere metrical expedients, but 
necessities of the style ; partly, to attain antiquity and elevation, 
partly for emphasis or for variety, and to break the prosaic 
effect of compound tenses with auxiliary verbs. Indeed, in 
all lively conversation we use far more inversion than in the 
style of essay-writing ; putting the accusative before the verb, 
beginning a sentence with a predicate or with a negative, and 
in other ways approaching to the old style, which is truly 
native to every genuine Englishman. 

The desire of reviewers to deprive our language of its 
poetical resources is wonderful. Since the above was written, 
I have read in two highly respectable reviews praise of a 
modern poet for not deviating from the prosaic order of words ! 
This is an ascription of merit, which would have surprized 
Sophocles, Virgil, or even Terence, as much as Milton or 
Pope. The effort to obliterate everything in diction and style 
which distinguishes poetry from prose, legitimately culminates 
into Mr. Thomas Carlyle's wish, that men would discard metre, 
and speak in honest prose. 

In regard to grammar, I have used several old-fashioned 
formulas, but I am aware of only one peculiarity which needs 
explanation ; viz., after the particle than, if a pronoun ends the 
clause, I have uniformly employed what is called the accusa- 
tive. In modern style, our classical scholars at an early period 
introduced from Latin a principle which seems to me essen- 
tially unpopular, viz., to end a clause with than he, than thou, 
than she, &c, where they think a nominative is needed : yet 



xii PBEFACE. 

they confess their despair of introducing than who ; a circum- 
stance which convinces me that their whole effort has been 
mistaken. In fact, they have intruded on us an ugly and 
gratuitous irregularity, in bidding us to say than whom in a 
sentence where they would forbid than him. Their argument, 
based on the doctrine of supplying ellipses, is fallacious. It 
would condemn a Frenchman for saying meilleur que moi and 
an Englishman for saying the book is mine. I cannot listen 
to unsophisticated English talk, without being convinced that 
in old English the words me, thee, him, &c, are not merely 
accusatives, but are also the isolated form of the pronoun, like 
moi, toi, lui. In reply to the question, " Who is there? " every 
English boy or girl answers Me, until he or she is scolded 
into saying /. In modern prose the Latinists have prevailed ; 
but in a poetry which aims to be antiquated and popular, I 
must rebel. If any one insists on my quoting some precedent, 
I call Southey to my aid (a man very particular about his 
English), who in his " Thalaba " says, " He must be a stronger 
than thee, who would break this thread of mine." After 
all, those readers who cannot bear than thee, than him, &c, 
in my lines, must alter them to than thou, than he. 

In regard to pronunciation, our language has undergone a 
change not dissimilar to that of passing from old Ionic to the 
later Attic Greek, by a clipping of the sounds, partly by the 
.slurring over of a vowel. We have also shown a tendency to 
throw the accent to an earlier syllable of a word, as the con- 
temporaries of Aristophanes said tropaion, homoios, for the 
older tropaion, homoios. All such trisyllabic compounds as sea- 
coursing, prize-hearing, are with me accented on the second 
syllable, and not in modern fashion on the first : so too I pro- 
nounce medicinal, as in Milton. Again, to be congruous with 
the older style, I endeavour to keep up the more elongated 
pronunciations. Thus with me, ordinarily such words as 



PREFACE. xiii 

heaven, tower, bower, are of two syllables ; towering, murderous, 
venison, numerous, threatenest, Ilium, Danai, chariot, wearied, 
furious, gorgeous, are three in the metre ; outrageous, laborious, 
Saturnius, Olympian, are generally four syllables. In five-foot 
metre such words would commonly be clipt, so as virtually to 
lose a syllable. The more deliberate pronunciation is not 
only more antiquated, but also has intrinsically something of 
pomp in it ; and is thus on both grounds better adapted to 
the Epic : yet I scarcely ever follow Shakespeare into making 
two syllables of the final -Hon of nouns, which, to say the 
truth, I find it hard to pronounce without seeming to myself 
affected. Where the older spelling (as warriour for warrior) 
suggests elongation, I have thought it better to retain it. I 
also spell highth as in Milton, partly for antiquity, partly for 
its analogy to width, breadth, length ; though I suspect that 
heighth is more correct still. 

The participle in -ed is often used by me at full ; — a pro- 
nunciation which is still familiar to us in reading the Bible. 
Thus hanged in book i, 40, is of two syllables. It is not re- 
quisite to print with a grave accent (as, hanged), since I write 
an apostrophe for this e when it is elided. Except indeed, that 
I too late observe, — I have not printed such words as " weari'd," 
" hurried," with apostrophes when they are dissyllabic ; hence 
we need "wearied," "hurried," when they are trisyllabic. 
This ambiguity will occasionally need attention on the part 
of the reader. 

Universally, he is requested to allow no " e mute " in pro- 
per names, except in those which have become naturalized 
with us, as Jove, Thebes, Ehodes. Thus Thebe, Rhode, 
Khene, will be pronounced with two syllables, Athene with 
with three, Eurybates with four. Eu is a diphthong, as in 
Theseus, Atreus, Briareus, Idomeneus, except when the letters 
are separated by dots, as in Eusorus. The same remark 



xiv PREFACE. 

applies to au, as in Naubolus and Menelaus.— Some attention 
is requisite to the Greek diphthongs ai and oi. These were 
probably sounded in old Greek as by us in aye and boy ; and 
so we pronounce them at school. But the Romans trans- 
cribed them into ae and oe, which perhaps originally did not 
denote any change of sound. Afterwards, it seems, both 
nations narrowed the pronunciation, nearly as the modern 
Germans have done. Finally, the Italians have generally 
corrupted both diphthongs into a simple e, and so the English 
vulgarly sound them, by which we have made Caisar (Kaisar) 
into Sezar I Our printers have aided the obliteration of the a 
and the o, by printing a, 02, instead of ae, oe. I am not sorry 
that my printer, mistaking my directions, has alternately used 
both methods, as in Mycenae and Mycenae. This is a case 
in which uniformity seems to me a sort of vice ; for it incul- 
cates error ; as if there were some difference between the two. 
In Homer and iEschylus we may probably infer that ai had 
a broad sound, from the facility with which it is dissolved. 
Thus the same word is either one syllable, as pais, or two 
syllables, pais; — as Achaia in three syllables, or Achd'ia in 
four. If the reader will take my advice, he will always sound 
ae (ae, ai) and oe (ce, oi) as in our words aye and boy ; he will 
then feel the transition from Achaeans (Achaians), Troians, to 
Achaians, Troians, natural enough. 

It is often an inconvenience to my metre, that some of the 
Latin names of gods, which we generally adopt, are shorter 
than the Greek. I have found advantage in retaining the 
Greek names Aphrodite and Ares, instead of the Latin, Venus 
and Mars. I have also kept Athene, Artemis, Hermeas, or 
Hermes, chiefly because their identification with Minerva, 
Diana, Mercurius, is imperfect: also indeed, to retain the 
similarity of Athene to Athens. The Minerva of the Eomans 
and Etruscans was not a martial goddess, an Amazon, like the 






PREFACE. xv „ 

Greek Athene, but the patroness of female manual accom- 
plishments and of boys' schools. Indeed, Apollo of the Iliad 
is not (as among the after Greeks) the god of the sun, nof ~ 
Artemis goddess of the moon. The poet does not once name 
Delos, and in book iv, 101, he calls Apollo " Lycia-born"; — 
though his meaning is not undisputed. The Latin Diana 
seems to be the same word as the Homeric Dione (b. v, 370), 
which again is the Greek Zenone or Latin Junone ; and in all, 
it probably means, the Queen of Heaven. Two or more mytho- 
logies have run together in each country. 

In all languages, perhaps, poetry must either take liberties 
with proper names, or paraphrase and evade them. The latter 
method is suitable for a polished and artificial style, but is 
totally opposed to the Homeric genius. Unable to use this 
device, I feel myself more free to do as Homer himself does, 
viz., vary the pronunciation of his names. Even Pope says at 
pleasure Merion and Meriones, Protesilas and Protesilaiis, 
besides such improprieties as Briareiis, Echepolus, and others. 
Achilleus and Achileus come alike to Homer ; I wish too late 
that I had always written Achilleus for Achilles. Other slight 
varieties will readily explain themselves. 

A few remarks here on the problem presented to a trans- 
lator seem to me the more needful, because some reviewers of 
my translation of Horace's Odes laid down as axioms (to 
which they assumed my agreement), principles which I regard 
to be utterly false and ruinous to translation. One of these 
is, that the reader ought, if possible, to forget that it is a 
translation at all, and be lulled into the illusion that he is 
reading an original work. Of course a necessary inference 
from such a dogma is, that whatever has a foreign colour is 
undesirable and is even a grave defect. The translator, it 
seems, must carefully obliterate all that is characteristic of the 
original, unless it happen to be identical in spirit to something 



xvi PEEFACE. 

already familiar in English. From such a notion I cannot too 
strongly express my intense dissent. I aim at precisely the 
opposite ; — to retain every peculiarity of the original, so far as 
I am able, with the greater care, the more foreign it may 
happen to be, — whether it be matter of taste, of intellect, or of 
morals. And as refards the dogma itself, it seems to me 
about as reasonable as to say, that if a draughtsman executes 
drawings of Greek statuary, he should aim to pass the draw- 
ings off as actual statuary, or as something original from an 
English hand. Nay, but he distinctly wishes it never to be 
forgotten that he is imitating, and imitating in a different 
material. So also the English translator should desire the 
reader always to remember that his work is an imitation, 
and moreover is in a different material ; that the original is 
foreign, and in many respects extremely unlike our native 
compositions. 

Again : an original poet aims at attaining the highest excel- 
lence in various kinds^ — as in sublimity, in beauty, in taste, 
&c. But a translator must by no means so set his aim ; for 
his first duty is a historical one : to be faithful, exactly as is 
the case with the draughtsman of the Elgin Marbles. I do 
not say that he is bound to reproduce every petty defect, even 
defects which are not characteristic or any way essential. 
But he has a general duty of telling truth concerning the 
original, which is the more urgent upon him, the higher are 
its intrinsic merits ; and this duty hinders his aiming at other 
or more excellence than he actually finds in the original. — 
And because I say this, I have been alleged to hold that the 
problem of the translator is wholly industrial I Just as much 
industrial as that of Mr. Scharf, in his beautiful drawings of 
the Lycian and Assyrian sculptures. Certainly, on the one 
hand, he would not try so to draw them, that an Englishman 
should fancy they were English sculptures ; nor, on the other 



PEEEACE. xvii 

hand, would he try to give them those forms, which he himself 
thought intrinsically most beautiful. But I believe he would 
be greatly surprized, at being told, that, if he aimed at faith- 
fulness, he must be content henceforward no longer to be 
called an artist, but only an industrial mechanic. 

Nor is it wholly useless here to protest, that I have not the 
remotest idea of "aiming to reproduce the melodies of 
Homer," which in the case of Horace has been most gratui- 
tously ascribed to me. Such an aim would seem to me to 
prove that a translator did not understand his own materials. 
An accentual metre, in a language loaded with consonants, 
cannot have the same sort of sounding beauty as a quanti- 
tative metre in a highly vocalized language. It is not audible 
sameness of metre, but a likeness of moral genius which is to 
be aimed at. A metre which in the original has antiquated, 
musical, dignified associations, must be represented in a 
translation by a metre of like character; what is light, merry, 
whimsical, must be represented by the light, merry, and 
whimsical; and so on. But whether this reproduction will 
be best effected by aiming at any near likeness (or analogy) 
to the metrical form of the original, is a secondary question of 
experiment. 

Necessitated, as a translator of Homer (in my opinion) is, 
to adopt a more or less antiquated style, I farther think he 
may respectfully claim the same sort of forbearance (I might 
almost call it humility) in criticism, which is habitually used 
to old writings, and to dialects which differ from our own : 
that is to say, — He must be tried, not by the current relative 
standard, but by one far more absolute. In the present day, 
so intensely mechanical is the apparatus of prose- composition, 
— when editors and correctors of the press desire the uniform 
observance of some one rule (never mind what, so that you 
find it in the " standard" grammar), — every deviation is 

h 



xviii PREFACE. 

resented as a vexatious eccentricity ; and in general it would 
appear, that dry perspicuity is the only excellence for which 
the grammarian has struggled. Every expression which does 
not stand the logical test, however transparent the meaning, 
however justified by analogies, is apt to be condemned ] and 
every difference of mind and mind, showing itself in the style, 
is deprecated. On the contrary, how do we behave to an old 
or to a foreign writer ? We invent " figures of Rhetoric," to 
explain or to apologize for his peculiarities. His phrases are 
called Synecdoche, or Catachresis, or Metonymy ; but if they 
are clearly intelligible, and not intrinsically unpleasing, we 
never condemn them barely because they are not scientifically 
accurate, or because we should not so express ourselves, whe- 
ther in flat prose or in modern polished versification. 

Returning from questions of style to the substance of the 
poem, I must beg the reader to remark, that Homer has no 
one name for the Greek nation collectively, who afterwards 
called themselves Hellenes. With him the Hellenes are a 
single tribe, a part of the kingdom of Achilles. The name 
Achaians is peculiarly, but not exclusively, applied by him to 
the people of Southern Greece, i. e., the Peloponnesus or 
Morea : and when he desires to speak most comprehensively, 
he says Pan- Achaians, and once Pan-Hellenes. (Pan means 
All.) Argos with him is not only a city in the southern 
peninsula, where Diomed was king, but is likewise a city or 
district in Thessaly, which he names Pelasgian Argos for 
distinction. Nevertheless Argos (or with an epithet, Achaian 
Argos) is also used by him more widely for the kingdom of 
Agamemnon (as book ii, 108), whether he meant the whole 
Peloponnesus, or rather, the district historically called Ar- 
golis. However, the result is, that he employs Achaians and 
Argives almost indiscriminately for the people over whom 
Agamemnon's direct and indirect power extended. A third 



PREFACE. xix 

name, Dana'i is also used in the same sense ; but this appears 
essentially poetical and mythological. The Argives are so 
called, as connected with the mythical hero Danaiis. 

Homer's doctrine concerning Pelops and his descendants 
was far less developed than that of the Greek tragedians. I 
suppose him to have believed, with the later Greeks, that 
Pelops, grandsire of Agamemnon (book ii, 105) established 
the new dynasty at Mycenae, where Perseus and his race had 
previously reigned : yet he does not give to the Morea its 
Greek historical name, Peloponnesus (island of Pelops), but 
calls it Apia (book i, 269), or land of Apis. This Apis, ac- 
cording to later writers, was a prince of Argos, and son of 
Phoroneus: he must not be confounded with the Egyptian 
Apis. To dwell on the peculiarity of the Homeric representa- 
tions in these and similar matters, is work for an ample 
treatise, the materials for which already abound in our own 
language. But probably no one will read such a book, or 
will care for the discussions of Grote, Thirlwall, and Mure, 
unless he has previously acquired a deep interest in the old 
Greek nation ; and that can only be after and through the 
perusal of Homer. 

I have myself been urged to this labour of translation, by 
a belief that our countrymen will never become familiar with 
the old civilized world, and feed on the instruction which its 
contrast to ourselves suggests, except by entering through the 
gate of Homer : and, to enable them to do this, we need a 
translation executed on the principles rather of a daguerreo- 
typist, than of a fashionable portrait-painter. The translator 
must not seek to " idealize " the Iliad, but to impart to the 
English reader (as nearly as he is able) the means of judging 
for himself what the true Homer really was. (In all the above, 
when I say Homer, I mean the poet of the Iliad ; I have no 
conviction at all, that the Odyssey is from the same author.) 



xx PEEFACE. 

But if once we succeed with Homer, it will have been but a 
beginning : nearly all the best Greek poetry may then soon 
become known through English. With the very same objects, 
I attempted the translation of Horace's Odes, — a book which 
has the great advantage of compactness. I now more dis- 
tinctly feel that the English language may cope with even the 
choral songs of iEschylus, and perhaps with every serious 
Greek poet except Pindar. 



GLOSSARY. 



Some readers may not be sorry to have under their eyes a list of the 
more antiquated or rarer words which I have employed. 



An, grant; if. 

Any gait, at all events. 

Ay, yes. 

Aye, always. 



Bale, severe harm. 

Beeve, ox, cow, &c. 

Behight, stipulate, definitely name, 
promise. — Behest, a promise, de- 
finite statement. 

Beknow, recognize. 

Berob, to plunder a person. 

Bestray, partic. bestraugM, to tor- 
ment ; for Bestretch, to rack ? 

Betoss, toss about. 

Beweep, weep for. 

Bonny, handsome. 

Bragly, braw, proudly fine. 

Bulkin, calf. 

Buxom, pliant, supple. 

C. 

Callant, a young man. 

Canny, clever, wellomened, sagacious. 

Choler, anger. 



Dapper, pretty, neat. 
Doughty, redoubted, formidable. 



E. 

Flee, also. 
Fid, old age. 
Fmprize, enterprize. 
Erst, originally, formerly. 
Fyen, eyes. 

F. 

Fain, glad, gladly. 

Fell, a mountain. (Cumberl.) 

a. 

Gramsome, direful. 
Gride, cut gratingly. 
Grisly, horrible. 

H. 
Send, catch; Overhend, overtake, 

overpower. 
Hie, go, speed. 
Sight, named. 
Surly, hubbub. 
Surtle, scuffle, bustle. 



Ken, to espy, to take cognizance. 

L. 

Lea, Ley, pasture ground. 
Leech, surgeon. 
Lief, willing. 



GLOSSARY. 



LiJceth (it), pleaseth. 
List, to wish. 
Lusty, vigorous. 

M. 

Mote, meeting, assembly. 

N. 
Noisome, annoying. 
JSfoyance, mischief. 



Fight, built {i.e. pegged? cf. Lot. 

Pago, &c.) 
Plump, a mass. 
Proper, one's own. 

E. 

Paid, a hostile inroad. 
Pavin, prowl after booty. 
Pieve, plunder, ravish, bereave. 



SaTce, cause. 

Scan, to measure, count by measuring. 

Scathe, to harm. 

Shrive. — I have used the verb to 
Shrive in what I supposed to be 
its broad meaning, viz. " to care 
for, or tend," the dying or dead. 
Its Saxon representative Serif an 



seems to justify this view ; but I 
find that our English dictionaries 
limit the word to Hearing Con- 
fession. 

Sith, inasmuch as. 

Sithence, ever since. 

STcirl, to cry shrilly. 

Spank, to stretch and stride, as a 
horse. 

Spell, to analyze. 

Syne (time?), Long syne, long ago. 

T. 

Teem, to empty out, to pour abun- 
dantly ; Beteem, to bring forth 
abundantly. 

Tire, woman's headdress (also, the 
iron hoop of a wheel. 

Trow (I), trust, (I) make sure. 

Troth, faith. 

Tryst, to meet in rendezvous. 

Venison, any wild game. 

W. 

Whilom, once upon a time, &c. 
Wis, Wit, Weet (I), know. 
Ween, I opine. 
Welkin, clouds. 
Wend, go, proceed. 
Wight, living, vigorous ; A Wight, a 
living thing. 



CONTENTS. 



BOOK PAGE 

I. THE QUARREL FOR ERISE1S 1 

II. MUSTER OF THE TWO HOSTS 19 

III. THE DUEL FOR HELEN . . 45 

IV. BREACH OF THE TREATY . . .59 

V. PROWESS OF DIOMED 74 

VI. THE WOMEN OF TROY 99 

VII. TOURNAMENT AND TRUCE . . .114 

VIII. DEFEAT OF THE ACHAIANS 128 

IX. EMBASSY TO ACHILLES 144 

X. THE NIGHT ADVENTURE 164 

XI. EFFORTS OF AGAMEMNON AND HIS CHIEFS .... 180 
XII. STORM OF THE RAMPART 203 

XIII. INTERFERENCE OF NEPTUNE 215 

XIV. DEVICE OF JUNO 238 

XV. REACTION : DESPAIR OF AJAX 253 

XVI. DEEDS AND DEATH OF PATROCLUS 274 

XVII. STRUGGLE FOR PATROCLUS' BODY 297 

XVIII. NEW ARMOUR FOR ACHILLES 318 

XIX. THE PUBLIC RECONCILIATION 335 

XX. DESCENT OF THE GODS TO BATTLE 346 

XXI. BATTLE IN THE RIVER 360 

XXII. DEATH OF HECTOR 376 

XXIII. FUNERAL GAMES OF PATROCLUS 390 

XXIV. EMBASSY FOR HECTOR'S BODY 414 



CORRIGENDA. 

Page 2, line 50, for huddling read sprightly. 

Page 12, line 380, for also read for. 

Page 14, line 470, for were read was. 

Page 56, line 386, for Took read Shook. 

Page 59, line 28, should end with a full stop. 

Page 63, line 167, for flout read flaunt. 

Page 124, line 334, for high read nigh. 

Page 151, line 241, for prows' read poops'. 

Page 154, line 359, for Shall read Shalt. 

Page 222, line 239, for Thus read This. 

Page 255, Note, for "so Tartarus" read "for Tartarus." 

Page 323, line 197, for the noble read thy noble. 

Page 391, line 59, for of read of the. 

Page 416, line 79, for of the read of. 



THE ILIAD. 



BOOK I. 

0^ Peleus' son, Achilles, sing, oh goddess, the resentment 

Accursed, which with countless pangs Achaia's army wounded, 

And forward flung to Aides full many a gallant spirit 

Of heroes, and their very selves did toss to dogs that ravin, 

And unto every fowl, (for so would Jove's device be compass'd);5 

From that first day when feud arose implacable, and parted 

The son of Atreus, prince of men, and Achileus the godlike. 

Which of the gods entangled you in wrathfulness of quarrel? 
Jove and Latona's son it was, who, with the king embitter'd, 
Sent mid the army sore disease, till troop on troop would perish : 10 
Because-that Atreus' royal son disdainfully rejected 
Chryses, Apollo's worshipper, who, to release his daughter, 

Unto the sharp Achaian galleys came with boundless ransom, 
The ensign bearing in his hands of arrowy Apollo 
Upon his golden sceptre wreath'd, and sued to all the Achaians, 15 
And most of allj to Atreus' sons, twin marshals of the people : — 

"Children of Atreus! and the rest of dapper-greav'd Achaians ! 
Oh ! unto you may all the gods, who hold Olympian dwellings, 
Grant Priam's city for a spoil, and happy voyage homeward : 
But my dear child yield up to me, and take my proffer'd ransom, 20 
In homage to the son of Jove, Apollo the far-darting." 

Then all Achaia's other folk murmur'd assent well-omen'd, 
To pity and revere the priest and take the brilliant ransom ; 

But Agamemnon, Atreus' son, delight in mercy found not, 

3. Aides, i. e., the unseen or invisible ; Pluto: 
17. The greave is a metal plate on the outer side of the leg. Dapper^ i. e. 
pretty ; in Dutch, brave : compare " braw " of the Scotch. 

1 



2 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

But sent him off with contumely and words of stem monition : 25 

" Beware, old sire! lest here, beside Achaia's hollow galleys, 

Or now I catch thee lingering or afterward returning ; 

Lest-that thy sceptre save thee not nor yet thy sacred ensign. 

But her I never will release : sooner shall age o'ertake her, 

Far distant from her land of birth within our house at Argos ; 30 

For there shall she the shuttle ply and at my bed attend me. 

But come! my temper fret not; else, less safe thy journey homeward." 

The old man quail'd before the word, and hastily obey'd him. 
Speechless he went along the strand of the much-brawling water : 
Then many a pray'r in loneliness he pour'd with aged bosom 35 
To prince Apollo, whom to bear, bright-hair'd Latona travail' d : 

"Lord of the silver arrows, hear! who overshelt'rest Chrysa, 
Who bravely reign'st in Tenedos and in the heav'nly Killa ; 
If ever pleasant offerings to thee, O god of Sminthus ! 

I hanged o'er the temple-walls, or burn'd upon thy altar 40 

The fatten'd limbs of bulls and goats; this wish for me accomplish ! 
Cause by thy bolts the Danai dearly to pay my sorrows." 

So utter'd he the word of pray'r ; and bright Apollo heard him. 
Down from Olympus' highths the god with swelling heart descended, 
Bow on his shoulder carrying and closely-roofed quiver. 45 

And loud and angrily the shafts did at his shoulder rattle, 
When forth he started : but himself like gloom of Night came rushing. 
He from the galleys took his seat afar, and aim'd an arrow ; — 
Then of the silver-corded bow right fearful was the twanging. 

At first the mules and huddling dogs he visited ; but shortly 5 

Against the warriours themselves a shaft, with anguish freighted, 
He aim'd : and ever as he drew, thick blaz'd the piles of corpses. 
Nine days the weapons of the god made riot through the army, 
And on the tenth did Achileus the mote of people summon. 
For so did Juno, white-arm'd goddess, secretly advise him, 55 

In sorrow for the Danai, for-that she saw them dying. 

When therefore they assembling came, and all were met together, 
Thus did Achilles, fleet of foot, uprising speak among them : 
" Atrides, thou and I may now, I reckon, straggling homeward 
Retrace the voyage back again, — should haply Death allow us,— - 60 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 3 

If war at once and pestilence ' thus wear away the Achaians. 

But come now; let us of some priest inquire, or some diviner, 

Or some interpreter of dreams ; (for dreams too Jove inspireth) ; 

Who may reveal, what cause hath rous'd such wrath in bright Apollo : 

Whether perchance for stinted vows or hecatomb he blameth : — 65 

If at our hand the fragrancy from fat of lambs partaking 

And perfect goats, he haply choose to ward away the ruin." [them 

Thus spake the prince, and down he sat : and straightway rose before 
By far the wisest of the augurs, Calchas, son of Thestor, 
Who knew the present and the past, and all hereafter coming, 7 

And had as far as Ilium the Achaian galleys guided, 

Because of that sage art of his, which bright Apollo gave him : 
Who thus with kindly soulharangu'd, and spake his word among them. 

" Achilles, dear to Jupiter ! me biddest thou to interpret 
The sore displeasure of the prince Apollo the far-darting? 75 

I then will tell ; but thou to me must swear in solemn treaty, 
That verily with word and hand thou zealously wilt aid me. 
For troth ! I reckon to enrage a man, mid all the Achaians 
Who lords it mightily, and meets obedience from Argos. 
For stronger is a king, when he with common man is angry : 80 
For even if on that one day he may digest his choler, 

Yet in his bosom haply still he fostereth a hatred, 

In aftertime to compass it ; then think, if thou wilt save me." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd in words responsive : 
" Take courage, surely; and avow whate'er the gods have shown thee« 
For by Apollo, Jove-belov'd, who, mov'd by thy entreaty, 

O Calchas ! to the Danai divine decrees expoundeth ; 

While I yet live, and on the earth gaze up to light of heaven, 

No man of all the Danai beside the hollow galleys 

On thee the heavy hand shall lay ; not, were it Agamemnon 90 

Who now among the Achaians claims to be by far the noblest." 

The spotless seer then courage took, and thus his message utter'd • 
" Not on the score of stinted vows or hecatomb he blameth 
But on his worshipper's account, whom Agamemnon scornino- 
Refus'd his daughter to release or to accept the ransom. 95 

Therefore doth the Far-darter send, and yet will send, disaster • 



THE ILIAD. 



[book I. 



Nor will lie of the pestilence withdraw the deadly grapple, 

Till some one to her father dear restore the curl-eyed damsel 
Unpurchas'd, unredeem'd; and lead in sacred train to Chrysa 
A hecatomb ; then haply we might pacify and trust him." 100 

Thus spake the seer, and down he sat ; and straightway rose before 
The widely-reigning Atreus' son, the hero Agamemnon, [them 

In anguish : for -with frenesy his soul of black within him 

WasfiU'd; and those two eyes of his like coals of lire were gleaming. 
Calchas address'd he first of all, with glance that evil boded : 105 



" Prophet of ill ! thou never yet 
To thee it alway pleasant is 
But goodly word to me, not once 
And now among the Danai 
That therefore the Far-darter doth, 
Sith-that for Chryses' damsel I 
Not to accept ; for surely much 



didst canny saying utter : 
of evil things to augur : 
hast spoken or accomplish'd. 
expounding thou haranguest, 
forsooth ! disaster send them, 
the brilliant ransom willed 
the maid herself prefer I 



110 



At home to keep, and love her e'en than Clytemnestra better, 



in naught is she behind her, 
in mind or handy cunning. 
I choose, if this be better : 
in safety, not to perish, 
prepare ; lest unrewarded 
for that, I trow, befits not. 



My wife of early love ; for ay ! 

Neither in feature nor in frame, 

Still, even so, to give her back 

My people I desire to be 

But ho ! for me forthwith a prize 

Alone of Argives I be left : 

Tor look ye all, what prize for me by other road is coming." 

To him thereat divine Achilles, foot-reliant, answer'd : 
" Atrides most illustrious, in greed supreme of all men ! 

"Whence shall the Achaians lofty-soul'd a prize for thee discover ? 
For nowhere keep we common spoil in store ; and from the cities 
Whate'er we pillag'd, all is shar'd ; and troth ! it were unseemly 
To make the general folk regorge what once hath been divided. 
But to the god surrender now this maid ; and we the Achaians 
Threefold and fourfold will repay, if haply Jove allow us 
To win the meed of pillaging Troy's nobly-fenced city." 

98. Curl-eyed is quite literal to the Greek, though interpreters shrink from 
rendering it. I refer it to the outline in which the eyelids meet, which in the 
pictures of Hindoo ladies may be often observed to be remarkably curly. 

106. Canny (Scotch) ; clever, well-omened. 



115 



120 



125 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 5 

To him in words reciprocal spake royal Agamemnon : 130 

" Achilles, image of the gods ! do not, howe'er intrepid, 
Steal past me thus : thou wilt not me outstrip: persuade thou shalt not. 
Dost wish, a prize thyself to have, and me, despoil'd, dishonour'd, 
Just as I am, to sit ; and troth ! me to restore her, biddest ? 
Now, if the lofty-soul'd Achaians find a prize to grace me, 135 

Eight worthy of my dignity, and suited to my humour, 

'Tis well ; but if they find it not, and I, with hand at random, 
Clutch either thine or Ajax' prize, or haply from Ulysses 
Seize and lead off; — why then, whome'er I visit, may be wrathful. 
But all such riddles better we hereafter shall interpret ; 140 

And now in the salt flood divine launch we a dusky galley, 
And rowers for it carefully collect, and place within it 

A hecatomb, and bring on board the dainty-cheek'd Chryseis, 
And of our councillors let one with high command be present, 
Or Ajax or Idomeneus or the divine Ulysses, 145 

Or thee, Pelides ! marvellous among the race of mortals ; 

That thou for us by sacred rite mayst win the Far-averter." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, with scowling glance accosted : 
"Ah thou in shamelessness array'd, with fox's greedy temper, 
How, ever, shall Achaian man with zeal obey thy summons, 150 
Either upon a march to go, or stoutly close in combat ? 

For hither not with sake of war against the spearmen Troians 
Came I in quarrel of my own : no charge have i~ against them : 
For never drave they beeves of mine, nor horses have they driven, 
Nor ever on the loamy clods of hero-feeding Phthia 155 

Did damage to my harvestry ; for verily betwixt us 
Is many a shady mountain-ridge and many a roaring billow. 
But thee, huge in impudence ! for thy delight we follow ; 
Earning renown at Troian cost for thee and Menelaiis, 
O dog in forehead ! — naught of which abasheth thee nor troubleth. 160 
And lo ! of e'en my proper prize thou threatenest to strip me, 
For which I greatly toil'd, and which Achaia's sons awarded. 
Never have I an equal lot to thine, when we the Achaians 

Clutch from the Troians mightily some thickly-peopled fortress. 
In sooth, the chief er offices of ever-rushing battle 165 



6 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

My hands administer ; but if perchance a distribution 

Arrive, thy share is larger far ; and I unto my galleys 

My portion, small but cherisVd, bear, when wearied with fighting. 

But now to Phthia wiD I go, sith better far I find it 

Home to return with crested ships ; nor, staying here dishonour'd, 170 

For thee intend I floods to teem of opulence and riches." 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, to him in turn responded : 
" Flee surely, if thy temper thus persuadeth ; nor entreat I 
That thou on score of me remain : for at my side are others, 
Enough to honour me; — and Jove, the Counsellor, is foremost. 175 
Of all Jove-nurtur'd kings, than thee, none is to me more hateful; 
For alway feud to thee is dear, and violence and combat. 
If excellent thy prowess is, — I trow, 'tis God that gave it. 
Then hie thee homeward on thy ships, along with thy companions, 
And to the Myrmidons be prince : but I about thee fret not, 180 

Nor to thy mood of wrath give heed ; nay, thus to thee I threaten : 
Sith of Chryseis bright Apollo willeth to despoil me, 
Her, in a galley of my own, by hand of my companions, 

Shall I escort ; but I myself unto thy tent proceeding, 

May carry off thy proper prize, the dainty-cheek'd Briseis, 185 
And teach thee my pre-eminence, and make all others shudder 
To hold pretensions side by side and think to play my equal." 

Thus spake he, and in Peleus' son a pang of grief implanted. 
The heart within his shaggy chest with double purpose faltered, 
Whether from side of thigh to draw the keenly-whetted cutlass, 190 
And put the assembly to the rout, and slay the son of Atreus, 
Or to allay his bitterness, and bridle in his passion. 

While all his bosom and his soul in such debate did struggle, 
And he in sheath the weighty sword was jerking ; — lo ! Athene 
From heav'n descended, forward sent by Juno,white-arm'd goddess, 195 
Whose heart for both of them avow'd anxiety and kindness. 
Behind him, by his auburn hair she grasp'd the son of Peleus, 
And stood, to him alone reveal'd ; but none beside him saw her. 
First marvell'd he ; then was abash 'd, when quickly he distinguish'd • 
Maiden Athene : dreadfully her two eyes beam'd upon him. 200 

171. Teem (Northern and Scotch) to empty out — pour out. 



book i.] THE ILIAD. f 

Then duly he accosting her did winged accents utter : 

" Offspring of aBgis-holding Jove! what errand brought thee hither? 
Of Agamemnon Atreus' son didst wish to see the outrage ? 

But roundly will I tell it thee, and think 'twill be accomplish' d, — 
He by his extreme haughtiness may chance his life to peril." 205 

But him in turn accosted then Athene, grey-ey'd goddess : 
" I came thy frenesy to check, in hope thou wilt obey )me, — 
From heav'n descending; forward sent by Juno, white-arm'd goddess, 
Whose heart for both of you avows anxiety and kindness. 
But come, desist from feud, nor jerk that sword within the scabbard; 210 
But wrangle thou with words alone, which, troth ! will not be wanting. 
For roundly will I say, — and this shall be a fact accomplish'd, — 
E'en thrice as many brilliant gifts hereafter shall be brought thee 
This outrage to repay ; but thou, refrain thee, and obey us." 

But her Achilles, fleet of foot, v address'd in words responsive: 215 
"A charge from you, twain goddesses, obedience demandeth, 
Embitter'd though my passion is : but thus I find it better : 
Who yieldeth fealty to gods, to him they greatly listen." 

This said, upon the silver hilt his heavy hand he planted, 
And back into the scabbard thrust the mighty sword, obeying 220 
Athene's word. But gone was she aloft into Olympus, 
To aegis-holding Jove's abodes, to meet the other Spirits. 

Again the son of Peleus then with words of altercation 
Address'd himself to Atreus' son, nor yet from rage desisted : 

"O gorg'd with wine! the eyesof dog, but heart of deer, who bearest,225 
Never didst thou with all the folk put corslet on for battle, 
Nor hardihood of soul hast thou among Achaia's chieftains 
On ambuscade to go ; but this to thee destruction seemeth. 
Truly more gainful is it, mid Achaia's ample army 

To plunder of his gifts, whoe'er a word against thee sayeth; — 230 
A king who doth his folk devour, for-that they all are worthless ; 
Else, verily, Atrides ! this were now thy final outrage. 

But roundly will I say, — and swear a mighty oath upon it : J 
That, by the sceptre in my hand, whence leaf or twig shall never 
Sprout forth, sithence the parent trunk it left upon the mountains; 235 
Nor bud will it ; for by the brass both leaf and bark around it 



Ti 



8 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

Are peel'd away ; but now in turn Achaia's children bear it, — 
Servants of Justice, — intheirpalms; by Jupiter deputed 
To enforce observance of the Eight : (a mighty oath I tender) : 
There shall upon Achaia's sons a longing for Achilles 240 

Come, soon or late, on one and all; but them, though pierc'd with an- 
Unable wilt thou be to help, when hero-slayiug Hector [guish, 

Shall hew them down in crowds : but thou thy soul within shalt mangle 
Enrag'd, that thou didst vilely treat the noblest of the Achaians." 

Thus spake the son of Peleus; then, against the ground his sceptre,245 
Studded with golden nails, he dash' d; and took his seat among them, 
n other side Atrides rag'd : then rose between them ^Nestor, 

The bland of speech, the clear of tone, the Pylian haranguer^) 
Who from his tongue an utterance pour'd down, than honey sweeter. 
To him already waned had of voice-dividing mortals 250 

Two ages, which in early days were rear'd with him, and follow'd, 
In heav'nly Pylos' land ; but he over the third was reigning : 
Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd, and spake his word among them. 

"Good Spirits! sure, a mighty grief home to Achaia reacheth. 
Truly might Priam joyful be, and all the sons of Priam, 255 

And other Troians too, in soul be mightily delighted, 
If all these things were learn'd by them, of you, twain chieftains battling, 
Who are of Danai supreme in council and in combat. 

But now comply ; and both of you in age are far below me. 
For I long since with ancient men, of prowess yours surpassing, 260 
Held intercourse; and never they contempt display 'd toward me. 
For not yet such men have I seen, nor ever shall behold them, 
As were of yore Peirithous, — Dryas, the people's shepherd, — 

And Polyphemus, match for gods, Exadius and Cseneus, 
And Theseus, iEgeus' son, who bare the form of an immortal. 265 

Of all the men who tread on earth, these hardiest were nurtur'd. 
Most hardy were themselves; and they, with mountain-lurking monsters 
Most hardy, fought; and all of them they marvellously slaughter'd. 
And I, with these, high intercourse afar from land of Apis 
Maintain'd, from Pylos coming forth, compliant to their summons. 270 
And in my measure I too fought ; but like to them no mortal, 
Of all who now set foot on earth, could quit himself in battle. 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 9 

And they to my discourse gave ear, and oft obey'd my counsel : 

But ah ! obey ye also ; sith obedience is better. 

Nor thou, though great in excellence, bear off from him the damsel ; 275 

But let alone the prize, as once Achaia's sons bestow'd it : 

Nor thou, Pelides, bend thy mind against the king to wrangle 

With adverse force; since ye the rest are no way peers in honour 

With sceptre-holding King, to whom Jove hath deputed glory. 

And if thou doughty art in might, and goddess-mother bare thee, 280 

Yet loftier is he, because his kingdom rangeth wider. 

Atrides, thou thy temper check ; and oh ! I do implore fhee 

Yield up thy bitterness against Achilles, who supremely 

A bulwark is from evil war to all Achaia's children." 

To him in words reciprocal spake royal Agamemnon : 285 

" Ay, verily, all this, old friend ! discreetly hast thou spoken ; 
But this man willeth high above all other men to tower ; 
O'er all he claimeth sway to hold, and over all to lord it, 
And give command to all : but this I do not think to suffer. 
But if the ever-living gods have fram'd him for a spearman, 290 

Do they thereby set forth to him free privilege of railing?" 

Then quickly catching up his word, divine Achilles answer'd : 
" For cowardly in truth might I and worthless be reputed, 
If every matter I should yield to thee, whate'er thou biddest. 

These thy enactments now impose on others : for hereafter 295 

To me give no commands : for I mean to obey no longer. 
This also will I say, — and thou within thy mind revolve it : 
Not with the heavy hand will I do battle for the damsel, 
With thee, nor yet with other man, since ye, who gave her, take her. 
But of the rest, that mine are call'd in my sharp dusky galley, 300 
Nothing of those, against my will, mayst thou to touch adventure. 
Or else, — come on, and trial make, that these may know the issue : 
Tor instantly thy livid blood shall start around my weapon." 

Thus did the two with adverse force stand up in altercation 
Wrangling, and broke the assembly up beside the Achaian galleys. 305 
Pelides hied him to his tents and galleys nicely balanc'd 

Along with Mencetiades and other dear companions : 

Then to the salt flood Atreus' son push'd forth a speedy galley 



10 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

And for it twenty rowers pick'd, and for the god's acceptance 

A hecatomb he plac'd onboard ; and dainty-cheek'd Chryseis 310 

Game last; and o'er them Leader went Ulysses much-devising. 

They then embarking floated forth along the watery channels. 

But at the king's behest, the folk, well cleans'd with holy washings, 

Into the salt wave's purity rejected all defilement. 

And they, on shingles of the brine nor corn nor wine producing, 315 

Prime hecatombs of bulls and goats were serving to Apollo ; 

Whose fragrance mounted to the sky, with curls of smoke aspiring. 

Such cares employ 'd the multitude; but not did Agamemnon 
Slacken the feud, which he at first against Achilles threaten'd. 
Talthybius and Eury bates he carefully accosted, 320 

Who held to him as heralds twain and ministers obeisant : 
" Go both ; and entering the tent of Peleus' son, AchiUes, 
Seize by the hand and lead away the dainty-cheek'd Brisei's. 
But if they shall not yield her up ; why then, — myself may seize her, 
Coming with larger multitude ; which were to himmorepainful."325 

Thus speaking, forward sent he them, with words of stern monition : 
The twain, on shingles of the brine nor corn nor wine producing, 
Pac'd sadly to the Myrmidons and reach'd their tents and galleys. 
But him they found outside the tent, near to his dusky galley, 
Seated: nor did Achilles then rejoice, when he beheld them. 330 
In tremor they before the king with reverential homage 
Stood still ; yet spake they no salute, and no inquiry made they. 
But he in his own mind discern'd, and first the twain accosted : 

"All hail ! ye heralds, who from Jove bear message, and from mortals. 
Draw nearer; justly I reproach not you, but Agamemnon, 335 
Who for the maid Briseis' sake has hither sent you forward. 
But, come, Patroclus Jove-deriv'd, prythee, bring out the damsel, 
And to their guidance yield her : but, I claim them both to witness, 
Before the face of blessed gods, before the face of mortals, 
Ay ! and before that king so stern. And if there rise hereafter 340 
Some need of me, from all the rest to avert unseemly ruin, 
Kemember ye ! — for he in truth, with deadly bosom fumeth, 

334. From Jove, i. e., heralds were esteemed as depositaries of a sacred law — 
international law. 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 11 

Nor knoweth wisely to look out forward at once, and backward, 
How his Achaians by the ships might best in safety combat." 

Thus answer'd he ; Patroclus then obey'd his dear companion. 345 
And straightway leading from the tent the dainty-cheek'd Briseis, 
He yielded her: then hied the twain back to the Achaian galleys. 
Along with them unwilling went the woman ; but Achilles 
Afar from his companions sat in loneliness and weeping, 
On shingles of the hoary brine, at depths of purple gazing. 350 
And muck unto his mother dear he pray'd, with hands uplifted : 
" Oh mother ! since thou me hast borne for life of narrow compass, 
Honour at least was Jupiter the Olympian high-rumbling 

Bound to vouchsafe me ; yet he now no whit of honour granteth : 
For troth S the widely-ruling prince Atrides Agamemnon 355 

Dishonours me. My prize he holds : himself is my despoiler." 

When tear-beflooded thus he spake, his queenly mother heard him, 
As sat she in the briny depths beside her aged father. 
She from the hoary waves, like mist, emerging fleetly scudded, 
And took her seat before himself, while still his tears were streaming, 
And soothing him with hand and voice, she spake, his name pronouncing : 
"My child! whyweepestthou? andwhat the grief, thy heart that woundeth? 
Lock not thy breast, but speak it out ; and so, we both shall know it." 
Then her, Achilles, fleet of foot, accosted deeply groaning : 
" Thouknowest well ; and what avails harangue to one acquainted? 365 
Against the king Eetion, to Thebe, sacred city, 

We sallied out, and pillag'd it and hither drave the booty. 
And all of that, Achaia's sons divided well among them, 
But first for Atreus' son selected dainty-cheek'd Chryseis. 
Thereafter Chryses, — worshipper of silver-bow'd Apollo, — • 370 

Appear'd before the galleys sharp of brazen-cloak'd Achaians, 
Wishful his daughter to release, with store of boundless ransom, 
And in his hands the ensign bare of arrowy Apollo 
Upon his golden sceptre wreath'd ; and sued to all the Achaians, 
And most of all, to Atreus' sons, twin marshals of the people. 375 
Then all Achaia's other folk murmur'd assent well-omen'd, 

To pity and revere the priest and take the brilliant ransom ; 

But Agamemnon Atreus' son delight in mercy found not, 



12 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

But sent him off with contumely, and words of stern monition. 

Then the old man with swelling heart departed ; and Apollo 380 

To his entreaty lent an ear ; also greatly did he love him. 

Against the Argives bolts of woe he shot : thereat the people 

Were dying, heaps on heaps : and o'er Achaia's ample army 

Kov'd everywhere the darts divine. To us a seer haranguing 

Did skilfully the oracles of Hecatus interpret. 385 

I instantly was first to urge atonement to the godhead : 

On Atreus' son then choler came, and suddenly uprising, 

He spake a speech of threatening, which, lo ! is fact accomplish'd. 

Tor, lier in sooth on galley sharp the curling-eyed Achaians 

Escort to Chryse, — goodly gifts unto the prince conducting: 390 

But her, whom late Achaia's sons to me as prize awarded, 

Her now the heralds from my tent have torn, — the maid Briseis. — 

But thou around thy bonny child enfold thy arms, if able : 

Unto Olympus haste to Jove, and supplicate, — if ever 

To him by word or deed thou didst a pleasant service render. 395 

Eor often I thy boasts have heard within my father's palace, 

How gloomy-clouded Saturn's son (saidst thou) among the immortals 

Only from thee assistance found to avert unseemly ruin ; 

When all the Olympians beside to shackle him were minded, 

Maiden Athene, Juno queen, and oceanic Neptune. 400 

But goddess ! thou arriving swiftly didst from bondage save him, 

When thou to long Olympus hadst the Hundred-handed summon'd, 

By gods entitled Briareus, by all mankind iEgaBon : 

(For than his father he again is mightier in prowess :) 

Who then beside Saturnius sat glorying in grandeur. 405 

Before him quail'd the blessed gods, and thought of bonds no longer. — 

Sit by his side, and clasp his knees, and of all this remind him, 

If he may haply willing be to show the Troians favour, 

And hem against the galley's poop and water's edge, the Achaians, 

In carnage perishing ; that all may well enjoy their monarch, 410 

385. Hecatus ( Far-averter ? ) a title perhaps equivalent to Apotropus 
Apollo — remover of disease : so Hecate, of his sister Artemis, for her knowledge 
of the medicinal properties of plants, &c. 

404. His father, Uranus ; he again, not Jove only. 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 13 

And widely -ruling Atreus' son may know his own perverseness, 
Infatuate, who vilely scorn'd the noblest of the Achaians." 

To him responded Thetis thus, with tear her cheek bestreaming : 
" Alas ! my child ! and wherefore then did hapless parent rear thee ? 
mightest thou by galley-side from tears and pangs exempted 415 
Sit still ! since brief of span thy lot, nor very long endureth. 
But now beyond the rest art thou at once both speedy-fated 
And doleful : so with evil lot I bare thee in my palace. 

But I, to thunder-loving Jove to speak thy word, will hasten 
Myself, — in hope he may comply, — to snowy- capt Olympus. 420 

Do thou at present sit beside thy swift-careering galleys, 

And rage against the Achaians ; but — refrain from war entirely. 
For Jove to Ocean yester-eve for solemn feast departed 

Unto the blameless iEthiops ; and all the gods attended : 
But on the twelfth-revolving day returns he to Olympus. 425 

Then to the brazen-floor'd abode of Jove will I betake me, 
And will his knees embrace ; and troth ! I reckon to persuade him." 

With such address departed she, and where she found him, left him, 
In passion swelling still, to lose the dapper-girdled woman, 
For-that by force, against his will, they seiz'd her. But Ulysses 430 
The sacred hecatomb escorting reach'd the shores of Chrysa. 
When here arriv'd they were, inside the copious depth of harbour, 
Furling the sails, they stow'd them close within the dusky galley : 
Then in its case the mast they lodg'd, by shroudings gently lower'd 
Bight handily ; and her with oars push'd forward into moorings. 435 
Then out they toss'd the mooring-stones, and bound to them the stern 
And out themselves did disembark upon the rough sea-margin, [ropes, 
And out they brought the hecatomb for arrowy Apollo, 
And out from that sea-coursing ship Chryseis last descended. 
■ Her then Ulysses much-devising led before the altar, 440 

And to her tender father's hands consigning her, address'd him : 
"Me Agamemnon, prince of men, Chryses, charg'd with mission 
In service of the Danai ; — thy child to bring, — and offer 

A sacred hecatomb, to avert the shining prince's anger, 

Who now with many a moanful grief the Argives hath afflicted." 445 
With such address consign'd he her ; and he receiv'd rejoicing 



14 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

His daughter dear : then speedily arranged they in order 

The god's illustrious hecatomb around the well-built altar, 

In holy water dipp'd the hand, and barleycakes uplifted. 

For them did Chryses loudly pray, his hands to heaven raising : 450 

"Lord of the silver arrows, hear! who overshelt'rest Chrysa, 
Who bravely reign'st in Tenedos and in the heav'nly Killa. 
In former time to my request already hast thou listen'd, 
Didst honour me, and mightily hast harm'd the Achaian people. 
Now once again implor'd, do thou this wish for me accomplish, 455 
And from the Danai at length avert unseemly ruin." 

Soutter'd he the word of pray'r; and bright Apollo heard him. 
But after pray'r was made,andthey thebarley-cakes threw for ward, [them, 
The victims' necks they backward drew, and slaughter'dthem, and skinn'd 
And parted out the thighs; but these in double fold they cover'd 460 
With fragrant fat, and over them arrang'd the choicer pieces. 
Below, the old man faggots kindled, dropping wine resplendent 
Above ; and near him five-prong forks by younger men were wielded. 
Now when the joints were roasted well, and they the vitals tasted, 
The rest they slash'd in smaller bits, and spitted every morsel, 465 
And broil'd them all right cleverly, and drew them off perfected. 
After the toil had found its end and all the feast was ready, 
They banqueted; nor did their soul lack well proportion'd banquet. 
But when desire importunate of food and drink were ended, 470 

Then did the youths to many a bowl crown the high-mantling garland, 
And, after fit initial cups, mov'd round to all in order. 

And they all day with melody made to the god atonement, 
Youths of Achaia, chanting high; and sang in noble Psean 
The Far-averter : listen'd he, and was in heart delighted, [ness, 

Now, at what hour the sun went down, and Evening brought the dark- 
They, then and there, did slumber take beside the galley's moorings : 
But at what hour the Early-born, the rosy-finger'd Morning, 
Appear'd, then sail'd they off to join Achaia's ample army. 
To them Apollo, Far-averter, wafting breezes granted : 

They rais'd the mast, and merrily the canvas white expanded. 480 

477. Rosy-finger' 'd. He seems to conceive of Morning as of an " Eastern 
lady," whose fingers are dyed red with henna. 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 15 

Right square upon the sail the wind blar'd, and the purple billow 

Shriek'd mightily around the bows, as rush'd the galley onward. 

Over the water scudded she, accomplishing her voyage. 

But when they fully had attain'd Achaia's ample army, 

Upon the dry and solid earth they haul'd the dusky galley 485 

High on the sand, and underneath long buttresses extended, 

And they themselves were scatter'd free amid the tents and galleys. 

But he, Achilles, fleet of foot, Pelides Jove-descended, 

Sat by the swift-careering ships and still his anger foster'd. 

Nor ever now frequented he the assembly man- ennobling, 490 

Nor mov'd to war ; but gloomily with inward passion wasted : 

There lingering, he long'd to join the shout of arms, and combat. 

Now when thereafter came around the twelfth-revolving morning, 
Then did the ever-living gods return unto Olympus, 
All in a band, and Jove went first. But Thetis, she forgat not 495 
The charges of her proper child ; but from the wave emerging, 
Early of dawn forthwith she climb'd great Heaven and Olympus ; 
And found wide-sighted Saturn's child apart from others sitting, 
Upon the topmost pinnacle of many-ridg'd Olympus. 

In front of him she took her seat, with her left hand embracing 500 
His knees ; and with her better hand beneath his chin she seiz'd him, 
And supplicating, thus address'd the prince the son of Saturn : 

" Father Jove, if ever I among the immortals pleas'd thee 

By word, or e'en by deed, do thou this wish for me accomplish. 
Give honour to my son, who most of all is speedy-fated. 505 

Eor Agamemnon, prince of men, hath cast on him dishonour, 
Holding Achilles' proper prize : himself is the despoiler. 
But Jove ! Olympian Counsellor ! set thou the price upon him : 
And so long to the Tro'ians give puissance, till the Achaians 

Set value on my son, and learn him to exalt with honour." 510 
She spake ; and cloud-collecting Jove no word to her responded, 
But silent long he sat. But Thetis, once engag'd to win him, 
Clung to the knees she first had touch'd, and doubled her entreaty : 

" Now promise it unfailingly and nod to me approval, 
Or else refuse, and let me know (sith thee no fear withholdeth) 515 
How much among all deities am I the most dishonour'd." 



16 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

To her with indignation huge spake Jove the cloud-collector : 
" ! deadly work thou sendest me, in bitter jar and brawling 
With Juno to contend, when she by wrangling words will fret me. 
For sooth ! she alway even now among the gods immortal 520 

Kevileth me, and saith that I the Troians aid in battle. 

But thou at present backward draw thy step, lest haply Juno 
Get knowledge : I for thy request will study, to perform it. 
Dost doubt ? then by the nod will I give token, to assure thee. 
For this, among the immortals, is from me the firmest sanction : 525 
For whatsoe'er with bending head I once assent, is neither 
Deceptive nor revokeable, nor faileth of fulfilment." 

Such promise utter'd,- — Saturn's son with raven eyebrow nodded ; 
And that majestic deathless head did its ambrosial tresses 
In mighty undulations wave, and great Olympus shudder'd. 530 

After such counselling, the twain were parted. She thereafter 
Leapt from Olympus' blazing highth into the briny billow ; 
And Jove unto his own abode return'd : the gods, to greet him, 
Eose all at once from off their seats, before their proper Father : 
Not one his coming dar'd to wait, but all stood up before him. 535 
Thus he did there upon his throne sit down. Yet not was Juno 
Slow to take knowledge and discern that silver-footed Thetis, 
The daughter of the Ocean sire, with him had join'd in counsel ? 
And she forthwith Saturnius with cutting accents chided : [540 

" Who of the gods, skill'd in wiles ! with thee did join in counsel? 
Pleasant to thee it alway is, apart from me remaining, 

With secret purpose to decide ; nor ever yet thou lovest 
To me in willing confidence thy inner thoughts to utter." 

To her responded thereupon the Sire of gods and mortals : 
"All the discourses of my mouth, aspire not thou, O Juno, 545 

To know : for difficult will they be e'en to thee, my consort. 
But of them whatsoever is for conference adapted, 

Not one shall earlier than thee this know, of gods or mortals : 
But what, apart from other gods, it pleaseth me to ponder, 
Inquire not thou too anxiously, nor seek my mind to fathom." 550 

529. Ambrosial, fit for an immortal ; we want to say " immortalic." 



book i.] THE ILIAD. 17 

To him responded thereupon the large-ey'd queenly Juno : 

" son of Saturn, grim and dire, what saying hast thou blurted ? 
Naught in the past have I inquir'd; in naught thy mind have fathom'd : 
But troth ! in much tranquillity, whate'er thou wilt, thou plannest. 
And now in soul I grimly dread, lest silverfooted Thetis, 555 

The daughter of the Ocean sire, have haply won thee over. 
For at thy side with early dawn she sat, thy knees embracing. 
Therefore, I guess, in promise sure thou nodded hast, to honour 
Achilles, and a carnage make along the Achaian galleys." 

Then cloud-collecting Jupiter, addressing her, responded : 560 
" elf-possessed wight ! who aye suspectest, and discernest, 
But naught wilt thou the more avail to compass ; yea, and rather 
My heart from thee wilt separate ; which were to thee more painful. 
If, as thou thinkest, so it is, my will (be sure) decideth. 

But dumb in silence sit thee down, to my command submissive. 565 
Lest near I draw, and cast my hands inviolable on thee, 
And all Olympus' habitants to succour thee avail not." 

When thus he spake, with terror quail'd the large-ey'd queenly Juno ; 
And dumb in silence down she sat, her tender heart subduing. 
Then were the heav'nly gods, throughout the abode of Jove, indignant : 
But Vulcan, fam'd in handicraft, to them began discourses, 
>To gratify his mother dear, the whitearm'd goddess Juno. 

"Oh! deadly work will here be seen, no longer to be suffer'd, 
If ye, in cause of mortals, both do jangle thus and wrangle, 
And mid the gods propose a match of cawing. Sooth ! no pleasure 575 
Of goodly banquet will remain, since worser counsels conquer. 
Now to my mother I advise, (who, troth ! is sage without me,) 

To gratify my father dear ; lest the Saturnian father 

Baise a new quarrel, and embroil along with us the banquet . 
For if the Olympian lightener should entertain the fancy 580 
To wrench the mountain from its bed ; — his might is far transcendant. 
But oh ! with words of gentleness do thou, my mother ! soothe him ; 
And instantly the Olympian will be to us propitious." 

Thus did he speak, and springing up, a goblet doubly hollow 
He, to his mother dear, in hand presented, and address'd her: 585 
" Bear up, my mother, and endure, however sharp thy sorrow, 
I. 2 



18 THE ILIAD. [book i. 

Lest I (beloved as thou art) beneath my eyes behold thee 

Welllash'd and thrash' d; nor then shall I (tho' anguish-struck) be able 
To succour : for the Olympian is troublous to encounter. 
Tor once upon a time before, when I to aid was eager, 590 

Hitch'd by the foot, me toss'd he down from the celestial threshold. 
The livelong day was I in course ; and when the sun was setting, 
I came to ground on Lemnos' isle, and little breath was in me. 
But quickly there the Sintians did from the fall recruit me." 

Thus prattled he, and mov'd a smile to Juno, whitearm'd goddess, 595 
Who, smiling, from her kindly son in hand the cup accepted. 
But he to all the other gods, from right to left proceeding, 

Cup-bearer acted, from the bowl teeming the luscious nectar. 
Then rose among the blessed gods interminable laughter, 
Vulcan to see across the halls so diligent in service. 600 

Thus then, throughout the livelong day, until the sun was setting, 
They banqueted ; nor did their soul lack well-proportion'd banquet, 
Nor yet the harp so beautiful, in hand of bright Apollo, 
And Muses, who with dainty voice sang each to each responding. 

But when the brilliant light of sun had sunk beneath the ocean, 605 
To take their rest then wended they each to his proper dwelling, 
Where with sagacious handicraft the greatly-famous Vulcan 
The doubly dextrous, had prepar'd for every one his mansion. 
And Jove, the Olympian lightener, to his own bed proceeded, 
Where erst it was his wont to mount, when press'd by gentle slumber: 610 
There rested he : and by his side lay golden-throned Juno. 

591. Celestial : "needing divine language to express ;" i. e. supernatural. I 
sometimes render it unearthly. 

608. Doubly dextrous^ using both hands with equal skill 



19 



BOOK II. 

JN ow all beside, both gods above, and men with crests of horsetail, 

All night were resting : only Jove delicious slumber held not. 

But he in fluctuating heart did ponder, how to honour 

Achilles, and a carnage make along the Achaian galleys. 

To his deliberating mind this counsel wisest seemed, — 5 

On Agamemnon, Atreus' son, to send a ghastly Vision ; 

So duly he accosting him did winged accents utter : 

" Thou ghastly Vision, up! and seek the sharp Achaian galleys. 
Hie to the tent of Atreus' son, the hero Agamemnon, 
And every thing to him declare exact, as I enjoin thee. 10 

Bid him the rout promiscuous of streaming-hair'd Achaians 
Well to array : for now would he Troy's ample-streeted city 
O'ermaster: for the immortal gods, who hold Olympian dwellings, 
No longer doublyminded are : for supplicating Juno 
Hath bent them to her will; and griefs are fasten'd on the Troians." 15 

He spake; and off the Vision fled, soon as he heard the bidding; 
And gliding rapidly attain'd the sharp Achaian galleys : 

Then hied he straight to Agamemnon, Atreus' son, and found him 
Eeposing in his tent ; and round was pour'd ambrosial slumber. 
There right above his head stood he, like to the son of Neleus, 20 

Nestor ; whom most of aged men did Agamemnon value. 
In such similitude, to him spake the celestial Vision : 

"O son of Atreus skilful-hearted courser-taming, — sleepest ? 
Not all the night behoveth it a Counsellor to slumber, 
To whom, — with such a weight of care, — the peoples are entrusted. 25 
Now speedily discern my word : from Jove I bring a message, 
Who, far asunder, yet for thee great care and pity feeleth. 
He biddeth thee the rout entire of streaming-hair'd Achaians 
Well to array : for now wilt thou Troy's ample-streeted city 
O'ermaster: for the immortal gods, who hold Olympian dwellings, 30 



20 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

No longer doubly minded are : for supplicating Juno 
Hath bent them to her will, and griefs are fasten'd on the Troians 
Prom Jupiter. But thou, when left by heart-consoling slumber, 
Hold this within thy mind, nor let forgetfulness invade thee." 

With such address departed he, and where he found him, left him, 35 
Things in his heart imagining, for no fulfilment destin'd. 
For, simpleton ! in that same day to capture Priam's city 
Confided he ; nor knew the deeds which Jove in truth was plotting ; 
Who held the purpose, to inflict, by dint of stubborn struggles, 
On Troians and on Danai new miseries and groanings. 40 

He woke from sleep; and round him stream'd the utterance of heaven. 
Upright he rais'd him, and put on a new and dainty tunic 
Goodly of texture : over it he cast an ample garment, 

And underneath his supple feet he bound the comely sandals. 
About his shoulders next he slung the sword with silver studded; 45 
Last, his paternal sceptre took, for ever undecaying, 
And with it went along the ships of brazen-cloak'd Achaians. 

So soon as Morning's heav'nly Queen was climbing long Olympus, 
Announcing light to Jupiter and other gods immortal; 

Did Agamemnon quickly bid the clear-intoning heralds 50 

To summon into public mote the streaming-hair'd Achaians. 

These gave the word of summoning: right quickly those assembled. 
But first a Council took its seat, of lofty-minded elders, 
Close to the galley of the king, the Pylos-nurtur'd Nestor. 
When these together he had call'd, a canny word disclos'd he : 55 

" Listen, my friends! In guise of dream came a celestial vision 
To me, amid the ambrosial night : and most, of godlike Nestor, 
In form, in feature and in size, had narrowly the semblance. 
There, right above my head, he stood, and spake to me his errand : — 
" son of Atreus skilful-hearted courser-taming, — sleepest ? 60 

Not all the night behoveth it a Counsellor to slumber, 

To whom, — with such a weight of care, — the peoples are entrusted. 
Now speedily discern my word : from Jove I bring a message, 
Who, far asunder, yet for thee great care and pity feeleth. 
He biddeth thee the rout entire of streaming-hair'd Achaians 65 
Well to array : for now wilt thou Troy's ample-streeted city 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 21 

O'ermaster: for the immortal gods, who hold Olympian dwellings, 
No longer doubly minded are : for supplicating Juno 
Hath bent them to her will; and griefs are fasten'd on the Troians 
From Jupiter : but hold thou this in heart. — He, thus commanding, 70 
Flew off and vanished; and from me sweet slumber then departed. 
But come, — if we may cleverly Achaia's sons accoutre : 
And I their temper first will try with words, as is permitted, 
And with their galleys many-bench'd homeward to flee will counsel. 
But ye must, each in different part, by skilful words detain them," 75 

So much he spake, and down he sat; but next arose before them 
Gerenian Nestor, Neleus' son, the prince of sandy Pylos ; 
Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd and spake his word among them : 

"0 friends, who to the Argive folk are governours and leaders, 
If, of the Achaians, other man had told us of this Vision, 80 

We might pronounce it falsity, and rather shun the speaker : 
Now he hath seen, who mid the host claimeth to be supremest. 
But come, — if we may cleverly Achaia's sons accoutre." 

With such address, he led the way, and parted from the council. 
Then all the sceptre-bearing kings, unto the people's Shepherd 85 

Obedient, dispers'd around, where rush'd the people streaming. 

In fashion as the nations move of honey-bees incessant, 
Which from a smooth and hollow rock come fresh and fresh for ever, 
And settle thickly clustering • upon the vernal flowers ; 
Here hover some, some flutter there, tumultuous and boiling : 90 

So then of these the many tribes from out the tents and galleys 
Duly in squadron were arrang'd along the ample bosom 
Of sandy beach, for public mote ; and Eumour blaz'd among them, 
Jove's messenger, exhorting all to haste ; nor did they loiter. 
The assembly all in bristle was ; the ground itself with clatter 95 
Groan'd,as the peoples took their seat. Them heralds nine in number 
With clear command were marshalling, to check the general tumult, 
And gain attention to the voice of the Jove-nurtur'd princes. 
Bight earnestly the people took their sittings, each restricted 
To several space, and ceas'd from noise. Then royal Agamemnon 100 
Arising, held the sceptre forth, which toilsome Yulcan fashion'd. 
Vulcan to Jupiter the prince, the son of Saturn, gave it ; 



THE ILIAD. 



[book II. 



Jove gave it to his minister, the slaughterer of Argus ; 

Prince Hermeas bestow'd it next on courser-smiting Pelops. 



Pelops again with it adorn'd 
But to Thyestes, rich in rams, 
Thyestes yielded it in turn 
Por lordship over many an isle, 
So resting him on this, he spake 
" Priends, heroes of the Danai 
Saturnius hath mightily 
Cruel ; who formerly to me 
To storm wellfenced Ilium 
But now an evil artifice 
Argos to seek, ignoble ; sith 
So seemeth it the will to be 
Who hath the lofty pinnacles 
And yet will lower ; for his sway 
But this is eke to future age 
That, after effort impotent, 
So choice and multitudinous, 
Against a town of fewer men : 
Por if, by joint agreement, we, 
A faithful treaty chose to strike, 
If Troians severally cull'd 



Atreus, the people's shepherd, 105 

Atreus bequeath'd it dying : 

to Agamemnon's honour, 

and o'er the whole of Argos. 

these words among the Argives : 

and ministers of Ares ! 110 

in dire annoy enchain'd me ; 

with word and nod assented, 

and bear away the booty. 

hath plotted, and doth urge me 

I many lives have wasted. 115 

of Jupiter o'ermatching, 

of many a city lower'd, 

is mightiest to mortals. 

an ignominious rumour, 

a people of Achaians, 120 

was foil'd in war and combat 

nor see we end in prospect. 

both Troians and Achaians, 

and each to count their numbers ; 

the hearthmen of the city, 125 



And we, the Achaians, into troops of half a score were marshall'd, 

And eveiy troop a man of Troy to bear the wine selected ; 

Pull many a demi-score, I ween, would lack the cup -presenter. 

So much superiour, I say, Achaia's sons in number 

Are than the city-dwelling throng of Troians : but, to aid them, 130 

Prom many a friendly city, men spear-brandishing are present, 

Who mightily distract my hands, nor suffer me, though eager, 

103. Hermeas (Mercury) slew the hundred-eyed Argus. 

105. Pelops came from Lydia to Greece, into " the land of Apis " (see v. 269 
above), which was from him called (later than Homer) Peloponnesus, or island 
(peninsula) of Pelops. Previously the race of Perseus reigned in Mycenae : 
Pelops was the founder of a new dynasty of which Homer here intends to 
record the succession. 

108. Argos, here perhaps means Argolis, a district of Peloponnesus. 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 23 

To storm and pillage Ilium, that thickly-peopled fortress. 

Nine circling times of lofty Jove already are accomplish'd ; 

Sapp'd are the timbers of our ships, and rotted is the tackle. 135 

Meanwhile, I trow, our consorts dear, and eke our childish offspring, 

Sit in the halls expecting us ; but, as ye see, the purpose 

For us is unfulfiU'd, for which we made the voyage hither. 

But come! as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow: 

Unto our native land belov'd upon the galleys hie we ; 140 

For ample-streeted Ilium no longer shall we capture." 

Thus speaking, agitated he, the soul within their bosom 
To all among the multitude, who had not heard the Council. 

Upon the assembly movements vast fell, as on long sea-billows 
Amid the depths of Icarus ; which East and South together 145 

Tumultuate, from out the clouds of Jove the Father darting. 
And as, when on a cornfield deep the West wind rushing sudden 
Bestirreth it with squally plunge, and every ear depresseth ; 
So agitated was the mote entire ; and they with clatter 

Stream'd to the galleys : everywhere beneath their feet ascended 150 
Dust as a cloud ; and each to each made mutual exhorting 
To cleanse the channels of the ships; to lend the hand, and drag them 
Down to the briny flood divine : their shouting reach'd the heaven, 
As home they hurried. Forth theypull'd the props beneath the galleys. — 
Then unpredestin'd homeward flight had Argive fates defeated, 155 
But that the danger Juno saw, and thus address'd Athene : 

" Ah me ! unweariable child of Jove the aegis-holder ! 
Say ! to their native land belov'd, shall Argives thus betake them, 
Over the sea's broad-swelling backs in homeward voyage fleeing? 
Then would they for a glory leave to Priam and the Troians 160 

The Argive Helen ; whom to win, Achaia's sons so many, 
Far from their native land belov'd, on Troian soil have perish'd. 
But now proceed amid the host of brazen-cloak'd Achaians, 
And by thy gentle arguments each warriour arrest thou, 

Nor let them launch upon the brine the easy-steering galleys." 165 

She spake, nor uncompliant found Athene, grey-ey'd goddess. 
Down from Olympus' summits she with sudden rush descended, 
And gliding rapidly attain'd the sharp Achaian galleys : 



24 THE ILIAD. [book n. 

Ulysses there she met, to Jove an equipoise in counsel, 
Standing; nor forward did he stretch to the dark well-deck'd galley 170 
His hand ; sith as a pang of grief his heart and soul had enter'd. 
And himAthene grey-ey'd goddess, standing near, accosted : 

" Jove-deriv'd, Laertes' son, Ulysses much-contriving, 
Say! shall ye thus, intent on home and native land beloved, 
Rushing, take flight disorderly on galleys many-benched? 175 

Then would ye for a glory leave to Priam and the Troians 
The Argive Helen ; whom to win, Achaia's sons so many 
Par from their native land belov'd, on Troian soil have perish'd. 
But now amid the Achaian host proceed, and from them start not, 
And by thy gentle arguments each warriour arrest thou, 180 

Nor let them launch upon the brine the easy-steering galleys." 

So counsell'd she; and hediscern'd the goddess' voice which call'dhim. 
To run preparing, off his cloak he cast ; but it the herald 
Eurybates of Ithaca, attending him, recover'd. 

Himself, appearing straight before Atrides Agamemnon, 185 

Beceiv'd from him his father's sceptre, ever undecaying, 
And with it went along the ships of brazen-cloak'd Achaians. 

Whatever leading warriour or monarch he encounter'd, 
Him he with gesture of respect and gentle words arrested : 
" elf-possess'd ! for thee to quail as coward, not beseemeth : 190 
But tranquil sit thyself, and cause the people to be tranquil. 
For not yet clearly knowest thou what was Atrides' meaning : 
Achaia's sons now tempteth he, but soon perchance will punish : 
Nor did we all in council hear, the deeds which he projected. 
Beware, lest on Achaia's sons his anger work some evil. 195 

And troth! of such Jove-nurtur'd king exalted is the spirit : 
From Jove his honour is; and Jove, the Counsellor, befriends him." 

But whomsoe'er of common folk he active found and shouting, 
Him with the sceptre he chastis'd, and word of menace added : 

"0 elf-possessed wight ! be still, and hear the word of others, 200 

169. An equipoise i for "equal." This is more than quaint. I would not 
defend it as literal, if I did not believe that the Greek phrase also sounded odd 
to an Athenian. 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 25 

Who are thy betters far ; but thou unwarlike art and feeble. 

Who no esteem canst arrogate in battle nor in council. 

'Tis not for all Achaians here, I trow, to play the monarch. 

Not good is many-headed rule : let one alone be ruler, 

Let one be king, to whom the child of crooked-witted Saturn 205 

Sceptre and ordinances gives, for royal sway among them." 

Thus he with princely governance went marshalling the army; 
But they, from galleys and from tents, again to mote were rushing, 
With murmurings ; as when a wave of the tumultuous ocean 
Screecheth upon the mighty strand, and all the floods rebellow. 210 

Then did the others take their seats, confin'd to rightful places ; 
But still, incontinent of word, chatter'd alone Thersites, 
Who with disorderly discourse and cleverness illomen'd, 
Disdainful of decorum, knew against the kings to wrangle. 

Whatever might the Argives stir to laughter, that he utter'd; 215 
And of the host which came to Troy none was as he so ugly. 
One of his eyes was fix'd awry ; one foot of his was crippled ; 
His shoulders round and bunching were, toward his breast contracted : 
Sharp was his head ; and downy hair, but scanty, budded o'er it, 
With Achileus he chiefly was in feud, and with Ulysses; 220 

For chiefly them revil'd he : now at godlike Agamemnon 
He keen invectives screech'd aloud. Against him were the Achaians 
Smitten with indignation and marvellously wrathful. 

But he with brawling insolence then rail'd at Agamemnon : 

" What farther, son of Atreus, now complainest thou, or lackest ? 225 
Of copper, lo 1 thy tents are full ; and women pick'd for beauty 
Within thy curtains numerous are found, whom we the Achaians 
On thee preeminent bestow, when we some fortress capture. 

Or gold dost need beside, which some of courser-taming Troians 
May haply bear from Ilium, as ransom for his offspring, 230 

Whom I in bonds may lead away, or other of the Achaians ? 
Or youthful damsel need est thou for dalliance of fondness, 
Whom thou detainest at thy will, unjustly ? — yet, a chieftain 
Nowise beseemeth it, in ill to plunge Achaia's children. 

O gentle hearts ! Achaia's shame ! no longer men, but women ! 235 
Home with our galleys let us go ; leave this man, here remaining, 



26 THE ILIAD. [book 11. 

O'er his prerogatives to brood, in Troy ; till he discover, 
Whether in aught his mightiness from us derives protection ; 
Who now dishonour casts upon a man, than him far better, — 
Achilles : for his prize he holds : himself is the despoiler. 240 

Not bitter-hearted is in truth Achilles, but indulgent ; 
Else, verily, Atrides ! this were now thy final outrage." 

Thersites thus with mockery revil'd the people's shepherd, 
Atrides ; but beside him quick stood the divine Ulysses, 
Who with indignant utterance and scowling glance reproach'd him: 

" thou promiscuous in talk ! although a fluent speaker, 
Refrain, Thersites ! nor desire alone with kings to wrangle. 
For of the army which in Troy with Atreus' children landed, 
I well believe, is found, than thee, no other mortal viler. 
'Tis safer therefore, not with Kings within thy teeth to chatter, 250 
And spit reproachful words on them, and watch the homeward voyage. 
Nor yet distinctly know we all, how these affairs are ending, 
And whether we, Achaia's sons, return for good or evil. 
Against Atrides Agamemnon, shepherd of the people, 
Reproach thou therefore utterest, because the Argive heroes, 255 
Many good gifts on him bestow ; and thou with chiding railest. 
But roundly will I say, — and this shall be a face accomplish'd : 
If e'er again I light on thee as now, the dotard playing, 

May then the head no longer stay on shoulders of Ulysses, 
Nor of Telemachus may I be longer call'd the father, 260 

But I on thee will seize, and strip the pleasant garments off thee, 
The cloak and tunic, and whate'er hideth thy shame from daylight ; 
And from the assembly driving thee with ignominious lashes, 
Send thee to champ thy grief beside the swift- careering galleys." 
Thus spake he, and with sceptre stout across his back and shoulders 265 
Smote him: Thersites writh'd; and quick fell from his eyes a teardrop. 
The crush'd and lacerated flesh beneath the golden sceptre 
Rose on his back with stains of blood: and down he sat, and trembled. 

237. Troy, is often said by Homer for the district Troas ; while Ilium is 
specially the city of Troy. 

252-3. Are said to the multitude, not to Thersites. 



book II.] THE ILIAD. 27 

Tortur'd with pain, he wip'd the tear, with blank and silly visage. 
The rest, though grieving, pleasantly in laughter turn'd against him. 270 
And thus spake one, with eye that glanc'd upon some other near him : 
" Kind Spirits! troth! unending is Ulysses' noble service, 
Who doth in canny counsel lead, and brazen War array eth. 
And now hath he this best of deeds achiev'd among the Argives, 
To hinder from his jabberings this ribald-blurting rascal. 275 
His haughty spirit will not soon again, I trow, impel him 
Against the kings his spite to vent in insolent invective." 

Thus spake the crowd : but rising up, Ulysses city-rieving 
The sceptre held ; and at his side Athene, grey-ey'd goddess, 
Unto a herald like in form, the people call'd to silence, 280 

That all Achaia's sons who stood the nearest or the farthest 
Might hear at once the speaker's voice, and ponder on his counsel ; 
Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd, and spake his word among them : 

" Atrides ! now to all the race of voice-dividing mortals 
Most ignominious, prince ! the Achaians seek to make thee ; 285 
Nor longer care they to fulfil the vow, which erst they promis'd 

When hitherward on voyage bent from courser-feeding Argos, — 
To storm well-fenced Ilium and bear away the booty. 

For now, in guise as children weak, or like to widow women, 
With soft remembrances of home they whimper each to other. 290 
And homeward, verily ! the toil might drive us in vexation. 
Tor one, who but a single Moon from his own wife is parted, 
Upon his galley many-bench'd, which yon tempestuous water 
And stormy whirlwinds drive about, — hath plentiful annoyance : 
But nine times over, now to us the Sun's revolving circle, 295 

While here we stay, is passing ; hence I blame not, that the Achaians 
Beside their crested galleys feel annoyance ; still, disgraceful 
Is it, in all case, long to stay, and homeward hurry empty. 
Endure, my friends, and wait awhile; until we know with surety, 
Whether in truth the word divine, or falsely, Calchas telle th. 300 

Eor this in all our minds is fix'd — and all of you may witness, 
Who stand from fates of death exempt, which rushing carried others 
On yester-eve or days before : — that, when the Achaian galleys 
Gather'd at Aulis, bearing woe to Priam and the Troians, 



28 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

And we, beneath a planetree fair, beside the sacred altar, 305 

With gift of perfect hecatombs did worship the immortals, 
Around, upon a fountain-brink, whence rippled brilliant water ; 
There did a mighty sign appear : a serpent, streak'd with purple, 
Terrific, whom the Olympian himself sent forth to daylight, 

Shot from the altar's under-side, and on the planetree darted. 310 
But thereupon were little ones, the nestlings of a sparrow, 
Crouching to hide beneath the leaves toward the branchy summit ; 
Eight was their number; ninth was she, the parent of the younglings : 
There he devour'd them one by one, while piteous their twitter. 
The mother flitted round and round, her darling ones bewailing ; 315 
But by the wing, with rapid coil, he caught the orphan mourner. 
When thus the sparrow and her young he finally had swallow'd, 
The god, who sent him forth to light, made him a signal token ; 
For crooked-witted Saturn's child in stony form enchain'd him : 
And we in wonderment stood by, to see the deeds which follow' d, 320 
When thus dire monsters of the gods our hecatombs invaded. 
But Calchas instantly harangu'd, the oracles expounding : — 
Why dumb in silence are ye held, streaming-hair'd Achaians ? 
To us hath Jove the Counsellor display'd this mighty portent, 
Late seen, and in fulfilment late, whose glory ne'er shall perish. 325 
As did the snake the sparrow's self devour with all her offspring, 
In number eight, but ninth was she, the parent of the children ; 
So here, by like account, shall we years just so many combat, 
But in the tenth shall we o'erpow'r the ample-streeted city. — 
So Calchas then interpreted ; which all is now accomplish'd. 330 

But come ye ! patiently abide, dapper-greav'd Achaians ! 
Here on the spot ; until we storm the ample walls of Priam." 
The Argives, when he thus harangu'd, skirl'd loudly ; and the galleys 
[Responded with terrific crash, beneath the Achaians shouting, 
That exhortation to applaud of the divine Ulysses. 335 

Also with them the charioteer Gerenian Nestor pleaded : 
" O gods and spirits ! verily at random do ye prattle 

Like silly children, ignorant of deeds of warlike prowess, 

333. Skirl (Scotch), to sing shriekingly ; related to our word Shrill. 



book it.] ^THE ILIAD. 99 

Whither are gone the oaths for us ? and whither are the treaties ? 
In fire should our advice be cast, and prudent men's decisions, 340 
The pure libations, and the pledg'd right hands in which we trusted? 
For vainly wrangle we with words incessant, nor are able 
An equal remedy to find, tho' long time here abiding. 

But still, as erst, Atrides ! thou, holding unshaken counsel, 
Over the Argives play the chief amid their stubborn warfare ! 345 
And if some one or two consult apart from thy Achaians, 
To Argos earlier to go, before they may discover 

Whether the word be true or false of Jove the segis-holder, — 
Leave these to pine and vanish; sith to them is no fulfilment. 
For Saturn's child o'ermastering, I say, approval nodded, 350 

High on the right hand lightening, tokens of favour showing, 
Upon the day, when Argives erst their swift-careering galleys 
Ascended, carnage and despair unto the Troians bearing. 
Therefore, let none be willing here in homeward course to hurry, 
Before that every one have seiz'd some Troian wife as booty, 355 
On sake of Helen to avenge our scurry and disasters. 

Or if among you one for home be marvellously eager, 
Let him his hand put out to touch his welldeck'd dusky galley, 
That he before the others may slaughter and fate encounter. 
But prince ! wise counsel take thyself, and hear another wisely : 360 
The word,which I will speak to thee, shall not deserve rejection. 
By tribes and brotherhoods thymen distinguish, Agamemnon ! 
Let brotherhood from brotherhood, and tribe from tribe, have succour. 
If such be thy command, and if the Achaians show compliance, 
The coward then shalt thou discern, — of chieftains or of people, — 365 
And also who is brave ; for each will fight his proper battle : 
And whether by unearthly will a city scape thy pillage, 
Or by the people's cowardice and ignorance of combat." 

To him in words reciprocal spake royal Agamemnon : 
" Troth! still thou in debate, old friend! Achaia's sons surpassest. 370 
Would that I had, — father Jove, Athene and Apollo ! 
Ten counsellors who might with thee compete, among the Achaians : 

343. Equal, for Adequate ; a word inadmissible in this style. 



30 THE ILIAD. # [book ii. 

Then quickly should king Priam's city bow the head before me, 
Captur'd and pillag'd mightily beneath the hands of Argives. 
But griefs on me are come from Jove, Saturnian, segis-holder, 375 

Who into strife entangle th me and quarrel unaccomplish'd. 
Sith for a damsel's sake have I with Achileus contended 
By altercation opposite; and I in rage was foremost. 

But if in counsel we again ever be join'd, no longer 

Shall Troy postponement earn of woe, for e'en a scanty moment. 380 
Butnowto banquet come, that next we may the battle summon. 
Let each man sharpen well his spear, and each adjust his buckler, 
Each to his nimble-footed steeds duly supply the fodder, 
Each keenly eye his chariot, and well prepare for battle, 

That all of us the livelong day with Ares stern may bargain. 385 
For no cessation will we give, for e'en a scanty moment, 
Till haply intervening Night men's controversy sunder. 

Now over many a breast the strap of the man-hiding buckler 
Shall sweat, and clinging to the spear shall many a hand be weary ; 
And many a courser too shall sweat, the polish'd chariot trailing. 390 
But whomsoe'er my eye shall see wishing to shun the battle, 
And loiter by the crested ships, for him it were not easy 
Against the dogs and ravining birds to find a safe protection." 
At this harangue the Argive host skirl'd loudly, as a billow, 
When by the rushing South impell'd, upon the lofty margin 395 

Of a sea-jutting craggy rock which never waves abandon, 

Tho' veer the winds to every side, hither or thither blowing. 
Then rising mov'd they rapidly, along the galleys scatter'd, 
And rais'd a smoke from every tent, and set themselves to dinner. 
To diverse gods of birth eternal they their worship offer' d, 400 

With vows imploring to escape death and turmoil of Ares. 
But a fat bull, five years in age, the princely Agamemnon 
To Saturn's overswaying son in sacrifice devoted, 

And Pan-Achaia's elder chiefs he to the banquet summon'd ; 
Nestor, of all the first : but prince Idomeneus was second ; 405 

The two Ajaces next were call'd, and then the son of Tydeus ; 

404. Pan-Achaia, i. e. all Achaia. He wants a word for " Greece." 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 31 

Ulysses was the sixth, to Jove an equipoise in counsel. 

But Menelaus, good at need, came of his proper motion ; 

For well he knew his brother's soul, by many cares distracted. 

Around the bull these stationed them, and barley-cakes uplifted ; 410 

Then amid all, the general vow spake royal Agamemnon : 

" Jove, most glorious and great ! cloud- wrapt ! in heaven dwelling ! 
Let not the sun go sooner down and yield the world to darkness, 
Before that Priam's royal hall I headlong cast to ruin 
Buried in ashes, and consume with foeman's fire the pillars ; 415 
And round the breast of Hector's self the tunic soft be mangled 
By griding brass ; and many a man among his trusty comrades 
Into the dust thrown headlong, seize the earth with bite convulsive." 

So spake he ; nor did Saturn's child as yet the vow accomplish : 
The sacrifice accepted he, but toil ungrudging added. 420 

Then after pray v r was made, and they the barley-cakes threw forward, 
The victims'necks theybackward drew, and slaughter'd them andskinn'd 
And parted out the thighs ; but these in double fold they cover'd [them, 
With fragrant fat, and over them arrang'd the choicer pieces. 
And these they roasted with the flame from leafless faggots kindled, 425 
But pierc'd the vitals, and above the might of Vulcan held them. 
Now when the joints were roasted well, and they the vitals tasted, 
The rest they slash'd in smaller bits, and spitted every morsel, 
And broil'd them all right cleverly, and drew them off perfected. 
After the toil had found its end, and all the feast was ready, 430 
They banqueted, nor did their soul lack well-proportion'd banquet. 
But when desire importunate of food and drink were ended, 

To them the Pylian charioteer, Nestor, began advices : 

<c O Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
No more debate admit we here, nor longer by postponement 435 
Lose we the action, which the God within our hands entrusteth. 
But come ye! to the general throng of brazen-cloak'd Achaians 
Now let the heralds notify a levy at the galleys : 

And for ourselves, patrol we through Achaia's ample army 
Thus in a troop, that quicker we may waken eager Ares." 440 

408. Good at need : strictly, good at (the crisis of) an alarum. 



32 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

He spake; nor found the prince of men reluctant to obey him : 
But Agamemnon quickly bade the clear-intoning heralds 
To summon to the ranks of war the streaming-hair'd Achaians. 
These gave the word of summoning : right quickly those assembled. 
Thereafter, those Jove-nurtur'd kings around the son of Atreus 445 
Arrang'd and pick'd the people: them grey-ey'd Athene aided, 
With costly aegis on her arm, immortal, undecaying. 

A hundred fringes, all of gold, around it were suspended; 
All were of dainty broidery, each worth a hundred bullocks. 

With this she glancing flash'd,and pass'd through allAchaia'sj)eople,450 
Exciting them to tramp of war ; and every heart among them 
She fill'd with vigour, ceaselessly to toil in war and combat. 
And sweeter suddenly became the battle, than the voyage 
Unto their native land belov'd on smoothly-hollow galleys. 

As hatefully a fire may blaze amid a countless forest, 455 

Along the ridgy mountain-tops, and cast afar its splendour ; 
So then, as march'd the companies, from off their brazen smoothness 
Irradiance unearthly shot, and reach'd the lofty heaven. 

In fashion as of feather' d birds the motley-crowding nations, — 
Of geese, or cranes, or long-neck' d swans, within theAsian meadow, 460 
Whereon Cayster standeth wide with over-brimming water, — 
Hither and thither flit about exulting in their pennons, 

Or with loud screams alight in front, and all the mead is noisy ; 
So then of these the many tribes from out the tents and galleys 
Into Scamander's ample plain were pouring; but beneath them 465 
From feet of horses and of men the earth terrific rumbled. 
Thus stood they on the meadow-banks of flowery Scamander 
By tens of thousands, as in spring bud forth the leaves and blossoms. 

Like as the many races are of buzzing flies incessant, 

Which rambling dart about, where'er the cattle are in station, 470 

Within the vernal period, when pails with milk are wetted ; 

So many then upon the plain the streaming-hair'd Achaians 

460. Asia, primitively meant the delta of the river Cayster ; next, the king- 
dom of Croesus, bounded eastward by the Halys, or Kizil Irmak ; thirdly, the 
kingdom of Persia was called Upper Asia ; lastly, Asia was extended to include 
the entire eastern continent. 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 33 

Stood forth the Troians to confront, all eagerness to crush them. 

And as, amid vast herds of goats, right easily the herdsmen 
Distinguish each his proper flock, when mix'd are the}- in pasture ; 475 
So these the leaders, parting well, hither and thither marshall'd 
For mell of war; and mid them mov'd the royal Agamemnon, 
Wearing of thunder-loving Jove, in eyes and head, the semblance, 
Of Neptune at his shoulder-breadth, of Ares at his girdle. 

In fashion as amid the herd stands out by far the foremost 480 
The bull, pre-eminent of rank among the kine collected ; 
So on that day pre-eminent did Jove exalt Atrides, 

Chosen above the common throng and amid heroes chiefest. 

Utter for me, ye Muses, now, who dwell in high Olympus, — 
For ye in truth are goddesses, all-present, and all-knowing, 485 
But we a rumour only hear, nor know we aught for certain ; — 

Who mid the host of Danai were governours and leaders. 

But for the multitude, not I might tell their tale, or name them, 

Not, if I had a tenfold mouth and tenfold tongue within it, 
Andtho' my chest were made of brass, and naught my voice could shatter, 
Unless the Olympian Muses, who of Jove the aegis-holder 
Are daughters, those commemorate who under Troy were warring. 
Now will I all the ships rehearse, and all their chiefs, in order. 

Of the Boeotian galleys was Peneleos commander, 
Arkesilas and Clonius, Leitus and Prothoenor. 495 

All who in Hyria had lot, all who in rocky Aulis, 

In Eteonus many-slop'd, in Scoenus or in Scolus, 

On Mycalessus' ample floor, in Thespia and Graia ; 

All who Erythrae occupied, Eilesius, or Harma, 

And all who dwelt at Eleon, at Peteon or Hyla, 500 

At Ocale and Medeon, a nobly builded fortress ; 

In Thisbe, land of turtle-doves, in Copae or Eutresis ; 
All who in Coroneia dwelt and grassy Haliartus, 

And all who Glisan occupied, and all Plataea's people, 
And all who Hypothebe held, a nobly builded fortress ; 505 

479. In antique medallions, great breadth of shoulders is assigned to Neptune. 
Ares, or Mars, ought to be small in girth, as seems to be here intended. 
I. 3 



34 



THE ILIAD, 



[book II. 



Or who in bright Onchestus dwelt, 
And all who held Mideia's soil 
All who in heav'nly Nisa dwelt 
By these were fifty galleys mann'd; 
Of the Boeotians embark'd 

Aspledon, and Orchomenus, N 
"Were by two sons of Ares rul'd, 
Astyoche, a maid august, 
To Ares fierce produc'd ; but he 
One son was nam'd Ascalaphus, 
And thirty smoothly-hollow ships 

Epistrophus and Schedius 
Sprung from the son of Naubolus, 
All who in Kyparissus dwelt 
In Daulis and in Panopeus 
All who around Hyampolis 
Inhabited, or who beside 
Or who Lilaia occupied 
Erom these a company was made 
Their leaders moving busily 
Who close to the Boeotians 

But over Locris Ajax swift, 
In bulk and stature not so large 
But greatly smaller: slight was he, 
But with the spear excell'd mid all 
In Opus and Calliarus 
In Bessa and in Scarphe and 
By waters of Boagrius 
Of Locrians, who dwell against 
On adverse coast, with him in train 

As for Euboea's proper folk, 
In Chalkis or Eretria 
Who dwelt at Dium's fortress steep 
Or who Carystus tenanted 
These Elephenor, branch of Ares, 



domain to Neptune sacred, 

and grape-abounding Arne ; 

and in remote Anthedon ; — 

and youths, six score in number, 

on board of every galley. 510 

the Minyeian city, 

whom in the house of Actor 

into her chamber mounting, 

her secret bed had enter'd. 

Ialmenus the other ; 515 

contain'd their train of people. 

of Phocis were commanders, 

the lofty-soul'd Ipheitus. 

and in the rocky Pytho, 

and in the heav'nly Crisa, 520 

or round Anemoreia 

divine Kephisus' river, 

close to Kephisus' sources : 

of forty dusky galleys. 

the Phocians were ranging, 525 

were on the left accoutred. 

Oileus' son, was leader, 

as Telamonian Ajax, 

and girt with linen corslet, 

Hellenes and Achaians. 530 

and Kynus dwelt his people, 

in beautiful Augeia, 

at Thronius and Tarphe. 

Euboea's sacred island 

came forty dusky galleys. 535 

the Abantes breathing courage, 

and vineclad Histiaea ; 

and maritime Kerinthus, 

or held their lot at Styra, 

rul'd beneath his sceptre, 540 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 35 

Calckodon's offspring, leader o'er the lofty-soul'd Abantes. 

And in his train the Abantes mov'd, with long hair backward streaming, 

Spear- wielding rapid warriours, with ashen shafts extended 

Eager to burst the corslet through upon the foeman's bosom. 

With him there came a company of forty dusky galleys. 545 

Them who Athene's city held, a nobly builded fortress, 
Land of the mighty-hearted king Erechtheus, — whom Athene, 
Jove's daughter, nurtur'd(tho' to him life-giving Earth was mother), 
But she in Athens planted him within her own rich temple, 
Where, as the circling years are full, by gift of rams and bullocks 550 
The youths of the Athenians do pleasure to the goddess ; — 

O'er these the son of Peteos, Menestheus, was commander. 

To him not yet upon the earth a man had risen equal 
To marshal chariots in rank and buckler-wielding heroes : 

Nestor alone his rival was, and Nestor was his elder. 555 

With him there came a company of fifty dusky galleys. 

Ajax, the prince from Salamis, was of twelve galleys leader, 
And where the bands of Athens stood, thither he plac'd his comrades. 

But them who Argos tenanted and wall-encircled Tiryns, 
Hermione and Asine in inward gulf retreating, 560 

And Troezen and Eiones and vineclad Epidaurus ; 

And all Achaia's youth who dwelt in Mases or Aegina ; 
These Diomedes, good at need, beneath his sceptre marshall'd, 
And Sthenelus, the darling son of Capaneus the famous. 
As third with these, Euryalus, a godlike man, proceeded, 565 

Whose sire the prince Mekisteus was, and Talaus his grandsire. 
But Diomedes, good at need, the bands collective guided : 

Of these there came a company of eighty dusky galleys. 

But those who in Mycenae dwelt, a nobly builded fortress, 
Or in Cleonae's goodly walls or in the wealthy Corinth , 5 70 

In lovely Araethurea or in Orneiae dwelling, 

And Sikyon, where formerly Adrastus held the kingdom ; 

All who in Hyperesia and lofty Gonoessa 

Or in Pellene dwelt, or held round Aegium possessions 

547. Erechtheus, i.e. indigenous ; a name denoting that the Athenian nation 
sprang out of the soil. " Athens " is the city of Athene. 



36 



THE ILIAD. 



[book II. 



Or widely-spreading Helike, and up the whole sea-margin ; 575 

From these a hundred shipswereled by royal Agamemnon, 
Atrides : peoples in his train most numerous and noblest 

Follow'd; and mid them shone himself with dazzling brass invested, 
In matchless glory triumphing, preeminent of heroes, 
Because-that mightiest was he and led the greatest peoples. 580 

Those who the mountain-hollows held of clifted Lacedaemon, 
Messa, the land of turtle-doves, or Sparta and Bryseia ; 
And all who Pharis occupied and beautiful Augeia ; 

Who had their lots round Oetylus and Laas, or were planted 
At Helus, fortress maritime, 
Did Menelaus, good at need, 
In sixty galleys ; but his bands 



Among them mov'd he actively, 
Urging to battle ; and his heart 
On sake of Helen to avenge 

But those who<*Pylos tenanted 
Thryum, a ford of Alpheus, 
Who dwelt at Kyparisseeis 
Pteleion, Helus, Dorium ; — 
Met Thamyris the Thracian 
When from Oechalian Eurytus 
For boastfully he undertook 
Daughters of seo-is-holdino; Jove, 



and Amy else; — their peoples 585 

his brother, lead behind him 

had separate equipment. 

by his own zeal excited, 

was vehemently eager, 

his scurry and disasters. 590 

and beautiful Arene, 

and Aepy's goodly buildings ;— 

and round Amphigeneia, 

where formerly the Muses 

andstopt him from his warblings,595 

out of Oechalia wending : 

to conquer, if the Muses, 

themselves his song would rival ; 



But they in anger marr'd his eyes to sightlessness, and ravish' d 



His song celestial, and made 
The bands of these the charioteer 
And ninety smoothly-hollow ships 

But all who held Arcadia, 
Lofty and steep, beside the tomb 



his hand forget its harping. — 600 
Gerenian Nestor guided, 
were rang'd beneath his order, 
beneath Kyllene's mountain 
of Aepvtus ; where heroes, 
Hand to hand combating,are found; — and all who dwelt at Ripe, 605 
Pheneion, or Orchomenus with flocks of sheep abounding ; — 

All who at Tegea had lot or lovely Mantineia, 

Windy Enispe, Stratie, Parrhasia, Stymphalus ; 

O'er these Anchaius' son bare rule, the royal Agapenor, 
In sixty galleys : and on board of every galley mounted 610 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 37 

Men of Arcadia numerous, with feats of war acquainted. 

For Agamemnon, prince of men, himself, the son of Atreus, 
The welldeck'd galleys gave to them, across the purple waters 
To voyage; since Arcadians marine employment know not. 

But those who o'er Buprasium were spread, and sacred Elis, 615 
Contained within Aleisium and limit of Hyrmine, 

From the tall rock of Olenus to Myrsinus remotest ; 

Also to these were chieftains four ; and every chief was follow'd 
By ten swift ships, on board of which many Epeians mounted. 
Over two parts Amphimachus and Thalpius were leaders; 620 
To this man Cteatus, to that was Eurytus the father : 

The third did strong Diores lead, the son of Amarynkeus : 
Over the fourth, command was held by godlike Polyxeinus, 
Whose father was Agasthenes, his grandsire prince Augeias. 

But those who from Dulichium, and from the sacred islands 625 
The Echinse, come, across the sea, which lie oppos'd to Elis ; 
Meges the captain was of these, an equipoise to Ares, 
Son of a chief by Jove belov'd, the charioteering Phyleus, 
Who to Dulichium withdrew, embitter' d with his father. 

With Meges came a company of forty dusky galleys. 630 

The high-soul'd Kephallenians were by Ulysses marshall'd ; 
Who at leaf- shaking Neritus or Ithaca were planted, 

All who in Crokyleia dwelt or Aegilips the rugged, 

And who round Samos held their lot, or dwelt upon Zakynthus, 
And tenants of the continent, the adverse coast possessing; 635 

All these Ulysses led, to Jove an equipoise in prudence. 

With him there went in company twelve scarlet-sided galleys. 

Thoas,Andraemon's offspring, o'er the Aetolians was leader, 
Who held their lot at Olenus, and Pleuron and Pylene, 

And Chalkis, hard upon the sea, and Calydon the rocky. 640 

For neither did the sons survive of mighty-hearted Oeneus, 
Nor Oeneus' self; but death had seiz'd on auburn Meleager. 
To Thoas then was princely rule o'er all Aetolia granted, 
And with him came a company of forty dusky galleys. 

By spear-renown' d Idomeneus the Cretans were commanded. 645 
Whoever Gnossus tenanted or wall- encircled Gortyn, — 



38 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

Who Lyctus and Miletus held and chalky-soil'd Lycastus, — 

Dwellers of Ehytium or Phaestus, thickly-peopled cities ; 

And who in hundred -citied Crete elsewhere maintain'd their dwellings; 

These spear-renown' d Idomeneus beneath his sceptre guided, 650 

And Merion, an equipoise for hero-slaying Ares. 

With them there came a company of eighty dusky galleys. 

Tlepolemus, of Heracles the tall and goodly offspring, 

Led of the haughty. Ehodians from Ehodes nine dusky galleys. 
These over Ehodes po^sessionsheld, into three States divided, 655 

Of Lindus and Ielysus and chalky-soil'd Cameirus. 

Their armies by Tlepolemus the spear-renown' d were guided, 

To whom, by mighty Heracles, Astyoche was mother, 

Whom out of Ephyra he brought, from the Selleis river, 

When of Jove-nurtur'd warriours he many a town had ravag'd. 660 

But in the palace tightly built Tlepolemus to manhood 
Scarcely was nurtur'd, when he slew his sire's maternal uncle, 

A branch of Ares, now decay'd, Likymnius beloved. 

Then galleys instantly he built, and, many folk collecting, 

Went o'er the deep a fugitive : for deadly threats were ufcter'd 665 

Bv other sons, and sons of sons, of Heracles the mighty. 
Drifting at random, fill'd with pangs, on Ehodes at length he landed: 
There, tribe by tribe, three-fold they dwelt, and greatly were they favour'd 

By Jupiter, who over gods and over mortals reigneth ; 

And upon them Saturnius unearthly riches shower'd. 670 

Nireus again from Syme led three even-balanc'd galleys, 

Nireus, of Charopus the prince, and of Aglaia, offspring : 

Nireus, of all the Danai that under Troy were warring, 

The man of fairest form, except the spotless son of Peleus. 

But easy of despoil was he, and scant his train of people. 675 

But all who at Nisurus dwelt and Crapathus and Casus, 

And Cos, Eurypylus' abode, and the Calydna islands, 

Over their bands Pheidippus was, with Antiphus, the leader, 



672. Charopus means Blue-eyed ; Aglaia, brilliancy. Such names given to 
the parents of Nireus are evidently mythical, if not the poet's invention. 
Nireus is not mentioned again in the poem. 



book II.] THE ILIAD. 39 

Two sons of Thessalus, a son of Heracles the princely : 

And thirty smoothly-hollow ships were rang'd beneath their guidance. 

Now, as for those who habited in the Pelasgian^Argos, 
In Alus or in Alope, or had their lot in Trachis ; 

And all who Phthia occupied, and Hellas, fair with women, 

Who were entitled Myrmidons, Hellenes and Achaians ; 
Of fifty galleys mann'd from these was Achileus the leader. 685 

But them, of harshly yelling war no memory excited, 
For none stood forward in their ranks, to marshal and command them : 
For at his galleys lay, divine Achilles foot-reliant, 

Swelling at heart to lose the maid, the comely-hair'd Briseis, 
Whom, by much toil, select he won, as booty from Lyrnessus, 690 

When of Lyrnessus spoil he made, and storm'd the walls of Thebe. 
And cast to earth those spearmen keen Epistrophus and Mynes, 
Whose sire Euenus was, and prince Selepius their grandsire. 
So, grieving for the maid, he lay ; but soon to rise was destin'd. 

But those who dwelt at Phylake and that domain of Ceres, 695 

The flower-spangled Pyrasus, — Ito, of flocks the parent, 

And Antron, hard upon the sea, and grassy-couch'd Pteleion ; 
Of these again commander was the brave Protesilaus, 
While living; but already then the earth's dark bosom held him. 
His spouse with mangled cheeks remain'd in Phylake deserted, 700 
Within his half- completed house : but him a Dardan hero 
Slew, when from off his ship he leapt, far foremost of the Achaians. 
Nor yet, e'en so, unled were they, — though for their leader pining, — 
But them in ranks of war array'd Podarkes, branch of Ares, 
Whose father Iphiclus was son of sheep-abounding Phylax. 705 
Unto the mighty-hearted slain own-brother was Podarkes, 
But of more tender age ; but he was loftier and braver, 
Protesilaus, martial chief : nor did, in sooth, the people 

Suffer from lack of governance ; yet long'd they for their hero. 
With him there came a company of forty dusky galleys. 710 

But those who Pheree occupied, beside the marsh of Boebe, 
And Boebe's self and Glaphyrse, and nobly-built Iolcus 

683. Hellas, which afterwards became the name of all Greece, in Homer 
denotes a limited district of Thessaly. 



40 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

These did Admetus' darling son lead in eleven galleys, 

Eumelus ; whom Alkestis bare,— fairest of all her sisters, 

Divine of women, Pelias' child, — to steed-renown'd Admetus. 715 

But those who in Thaumakia held lots, and in Methone, 
And Meliboea occupied and rugged-soil'd Olisdon, 

All these did Philoctetes lead, in archery accomplish'd. 
O'er seven galleys bare he rule, and each with fifty rowers 
Was well equipp'd, in archery for stalwart fight distinguish'd. 720 
But he upon an island lay, enduring stubborn anguish, 

Upon the heav'nly Lemnos, where Achaia's children left him, 
Tormented by the evil sore of that malignant hydra. 

There lay he anguish-struck; but soon the Argives by their galleys 
Were doom'cl remembrance to regain of princely Philoctetes. 725 

Nor yet, e'en so, unled were they, though for their leader pining, 
But Medon did their ranks array, Oileus' bastard offspring, 
Whom for his city-rieving sire 'Rhene his mother nurtur'd. 

All who in Tricca dwelt, and in Oechalia, the city 
Of Eurytus the Oechalian, and many-knoll'd Ithome ; — 730 

Two sons of Aesculapius, Podaleiris and Machaon, 

Excelling in the healing art, were over these the leaders : 

And thirty smoothly-hollow ships were rang'd beneath their guidance. 
" But those who held Ormenius and Hypereia's fountain, 
And who Asterium possess'd and Titan's whity summits; 735 

Of these Eurypylus was chief, Euaemon's brilliant offspring ; 
And with him came a company of forty dusky galleys. 

But those who at Gyrtone dwelt or occupied Argissa, 
And Oloosson, city white, and Ortha and Elona, 

These Polypoetes, firm in war, beneath his sceptre guided, 740 
Son of Peirithoiis, to whom immortal Jove was father : — 

(This offspring to Peirithoiis renown'd Hippodameia 

Bare on the clay, on which the Beasts with downy hides he punish'd, 
Which he thrust out from Pelium and to the Aethikes drove them :) — 
Not singlehanded ; but, with him Leonteus, branch of Ares; 745 
The offspring he of Caeneus' son, the haughty-soul'd Coronus. 

723. Hydrus, Hydra, water-snake. The arrow that wounded Philoctetes 
was infected with the snake's poison. 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 41 

Of these there came a company of forty dusky galleys. 

But two and twenty galleys swift did Guneus lead from Kyphus : 
Him the Peraebi, firm in war, and Enienes follow'd, 
Who fix'd their dwellings round about the winter-land Dodone, 750 
Or joyful tillage tended near delightful Titaresus, 

Who poureth in Peneius' lap his dainty-streaming water, 

Nor with the silver-eddying Peneius ever mingleth, 

But, alway sundered, as oil along the surface iloateth ; 

Eor-that it streameth from the Styx, which gods invoking shudder. 755 

Of the Magnetes Prothoiis Tenthredon's son was leader, 

An eager hero : these were spread along Peneius' currents, 
Or held their homes where Pelion his head leaf-shaking reareth. 
With Prothoiis in company came forty dusky galleys. 

These of the Danai were nam'd the governours and leaders. 760 
But Muse ! do thou declare for me who among all were noblest, 
Both men and steeds, which companied in train of the Atridse. 
Preeminent of coursers shone the famous breed of Pheres, 

Which drew Eumelus' chariot, and vied with birds in fleetness : 
Like were their manes, and like their age; their height of equal measure. 
These erst were in Pieria rear'd by silver-bow'd Apollo, 
Both of the gentler sex ; yet they spread fear and flight before them. 
But of the men preeminent was Telamonian Ajax, 

While-as Achilles stood away : for no one with Achilles 
Might vie,nor with the steeds that drew the spotless child of Peleus.770 
But he, enraged at Agamemnon, shepherd of the people, 
By his sea-coursing crested ships lay indolently listless ; 
And all his people, straying loose along the rough sea-margin, 
Took their amusement at the quoit or darting with the jav'lin 
And arrows ; while by every car unharness'd stood the horses, 775 
Munching their grassy lotus-food and marsh-engender'd parsley, 



755. Styx, i. e. disgust : apparently a naphtha stream ; supposed to flow out 
of hell. The gods were believed to swear by this river. 

758. Pelion, a mountain of Thessaly, crowned with forests. 

776. Parsley, or celery perhaps. But we are used to render it parsley, as 
the prize of the Nemean games. 



42 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

Tranquil: and in the princes' tents the chariots well-cover'd 
Idly repos'd ; and they themselves, their warlike leader missing, 
Stroll'd andpatroll'd along the camp, nor join'd the moving army. 

But it, as fire along the fields invading, hurried onward. 780 

Rumbled the ground beneath then- tread, as when around Typhoeus 
The thunder-loving Jupiter the earth in anger scourgeth 

]\Iid Arim hills,where (rumour saith)Typhoeus lies extended: 
So then beneath the feet of these rumbled the earth deep-thrilling, 
As on they went ; and speedily the breadth of plain travers'd they. 

But Iris swift with feet of wind on message to the Troians 
From segis-holding Jupiter came down with painful tiding. 

And they in general mote were met before the doors of Priam, 
The younger and the elder men, in full assembly gather'd. 789 

Then Iris swift of foot drew near, and stood, and spake her message. 
In voice she did the semblance take of Priam's son Polites, 
Who, to his fleetness trusting, sat as watcher for the Troians 
On summit of the barrow-hill of ancient Aesyetes, 
To espy, if e'er the Achaian host rush'd forth to leave their galleys. 
In such resemblance Iris swift her message spake to Priam. 795 

" Oh father, undecisive talk to thee is alway grateful, 
As formerly in peace ; but war inevitable riseth. 
For verily I oft have gone through many a fight of heroes, 

But never people yet saw I so many and so mighty. 

For troth ! like to the forest-leaves or to the sands in number, 800 
Now move they through the plain, to fight, and make the prize our city. 
Thee, Hector ! chiefly would I charge, whom so to act behoveth : 
For Priam's ample city is by many allies defended, 

But men from diverse race deriv'd to diverse language listen. 
Let every chieftain give the word to those who know his guidance, 8 05 
And each his proper citizens in several order marshal." [him, 

Thus spake she ; nor did Hector doubt the goddess' voice which call'd 
But quickly he the mote dismiss'd, and to their arms they hurried. 
Then open all the gates were flung, and out the folk came rushing, 
The footmen and the horsemen both, and rous'd unmeasur'd riot. 810 

In front a steep and lofty knoll before the city riseth, 
Standing apart amid the plain, by chariot roads encircled ; 



book ii.] THE ILIAD. 43 

Which truly is by earthly men entitled Batiaea, 

But by the gods, the monument of nimble-limb'd Myrine : 

There were the Troians and allies in several order marshall'd. 815 

Hector with helm of motley work was to the Troians leader, 
Offspring of Priam ; tribes of men most numerous and noblest 
Were after him array'd for war, with ashen lances eager. 

Next stood Anchises' bonny child as captain of the Dardans, — 
iEneias, — whom on Ida's slopes immortal Aphrodite 820 

Bare to Anchises, — goddess bright unto a mortal wedded. 
Nor lonely stood he; with him stood Antenor's double offspring, 
Archelochus and Acamas, well skill'd in various battle. 

But those who in Zeleia dAvelt beneath the foot of Ida, 
Troians of wealthy race, who drank Aisepus' darkling water ; 825 

O'er those Lycaon's brilliant son, young Pandarus, was leader, 
On whom Apollo's self of yore bestow'd his archer weapons. 

But those who Adrasteia held and country of Apaesus, 
Or who in Pityeia dwelt and Tere's lofty mountain, 

These did two sons of Merops lead, Adrastus, and Ampheius 830 

With linen corslet. Yerily their sire, Percotan Merops, — 

Who above all men divinations knew, — forbad his children 
To hero-wasting war to march : but they his word obey'd not ; 
Por why ? the Pates to gloomy death the youths unknowing hurried. 

But those who occupied their lots round Practis and Percota, 835 
And Sestus and Abydus held and glorious Arisba ; 

Over their armies Asius, a chief of men, was leader ; 

Asius, son of Hyrtacus, whom coursers from Arisba, 

Plame-hued and stately, bare along, from the Selleis river. 

814. Myrine, an Amazon. See Book III, 189. 

816. Motley. I hold the old-fashioned belief that the Greek aiolos is equiva- 
lent to the Latin varius, and that the verb in Odyssey, 20, 27, means variat. 
I see no indication that " rapidity " or " flexibility " are ever intended ; quali- 
ties not found in Hector's helmet or in Ajax's shield, Iliad, 7, 222, Since even 
Buttmann interprets the aiola nyx of Sophocles " nox (astris) varium," i. e. 
spangled night, the rendering " spangled -helmed" seems admissible here, and 
may be adopted through the poem if any prefer it. See £Tote on 4, 490. 



44 THE ILIAD. [book ii. 

As for the tribes of warriours, Pelasgians spear-frenzied, 840 

Who dwelt upon the massy clods of loamy-soil'd Larissa 
These did Hippothoiis conduct, and Pylas, branch of Ares, 
Whose sire Pelasgian Lethus was, and Teutamus their grandsire. 

Next Acamas and Peiroos, the Thracians conducted, 

All whom within its noble stream the Hellespont embraceth. 845 

But of the warrior Kicones Euphemus was commander, 
Whose sire Troezenus, rear'd by Jove, claim'd Keas for his father. 

The bending-bow'd Pseonians were by Pyraechmes guided 
Prom widely-flowing Axius and Amydon's recesses, 

From Axius, whose stream is shed the daintiest to mortals. 850 

Pylaenienes of shaggy heart the Paphlagonians marshall'd, 
Where a wild breed of mules among the Eneti is nurtur'd ; 
Men who in Sesamus had lot, and tenants of Kytorus, 

Or who on banks of Parthenus maintain'd illustrious dwellings, 
And Cromna and iEgialus and lofty Erythini. 855 

But Hodius and Epistrophus the Halizones guided 
Prom distant Alybe, wherein a fount of silver lieth. 

The Mysi Chromis own'd as chief, and Ennomus the augur ; 
Nor he by arts of augury black destiny averted. 

But him Pelides, fleet of foot with hand relentless slaughter'd 860 

Within the river, where his might to many more was deadly. 

ThePhrygesnext,withPhorcysand Ascanius the godlike, 
Came from Ascania's distant land, all eager for the combat. 

But Antiphus and Mesthles o'er the Mseones were leaders, 
Twain offspring to Talaemenes bestow'd by lake Gygaea, 865 

Who marshall'd the Mseonians born at the foot of Tmolus. 

The Carians with barbarous voice by Nastes were commanded, 
Who at Miletus dwelt, and held the leafy mount of Phthirse, 
And Mycale with lofty tops and currents of Maeander. 

Over their bands Amphimachus and Nastes were commanders, 870 

840. The Pelasgians in Homer are never confounded with Achaians, Athe- 
nians, Arcadians, or any of those afterwards known as " Hellenes," Greeks. 
Argos in Thessaly was called Pelasgian (v. 681 above) in contrast to Achaian 
Argos, or Argolis, ix, 141. 



book in.] THE ILIAD. 45 

Both Nastes and Amphimachus, Nomion's brilliant children ; 

Nastes, who enter'd war, with gold bedizen'd like a damsel, 

O simpleton ! nor this at all sad destiny averted : 

But him amid the river's flood Aeacides swift-footed 

Subdued; and skilful Achileus bare off the golden booty. 875 

Sarpedon and unblemish'd Glaucus led the Lycian heroes, 
Who came afar, from Lycia, from banks of whirling Xanthus. 

874. Maci&es, son (or grandson) of iEacus. Achilles was son of Peleus son 
of iEacus. 

877. Xanthus, in Homer, is not only this Lycian river, but is also the sacred 
name of Scamander, the Trojan river. 



X 

BOOK III. 

W hen severally thus were they beneath their leaders marshall'd, 
The Troian ranks, like flocks of fowl, mov'd on with noise and clatter ; 
As verily the scream of cranes across the sky is carried, 
Who, scar'd by storm ineffable, and by the scowl of winter, 
Soar on the pinion clamouring toward the streams of Ocean, 5 
Unto the men of Pygmy breed murder and ruin bearing, 
And at the early morning, set dire controversy forward. 
But yon Achaians, breathing might, march'd all of them in silence, 
Each for his comrade resolute some feat of arms to venture. 

And as, along a mountain's tops, mist from the South wind gathers, 10 
To shepherds hateful, but to thief than shades of night more friendly, 
And so far as one casts a stone, may each man see before him ; 

4. Ineffable. The Greek word literally means : " inexpressible even to gods." 
6. Pygmy, in Greek, means " as large as one's fist." There is little doubt 

that the monkeys in Africa are the origin of the notion of " pygmy " men, 

whom the cranes attacked. 



46 THE ILIAD. [book hi. 

Sothen the dustwave wreath'd in storm was rais'd beneath theirtramping, 
As on they went : and speedily the breadth of plain travers'd they. 

When both to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 15 
Foremost among the ranks of Troy stood godlike Alexander, 
With panther skin and bending bow slung loosely from his shoulder 
And cutlass ; but in double hand two brazen-pointed lances 
He brandish'd, and loud challenge made to all the Argive bravest, 
In battle's perilous debate with adverse force to combat. 20 

When Menelas, by Ares lov'd, descried his foe advancing 
With long and lofty stride, before the common crowd of Troians ; 
His joy was as a lion's joy, on some large game alighting, 

Whether an antler-bearing stag or roebuck meet his clutches ; 
For he in hungry mood, I ween, doth greedily devour it, 25 

Though hard upon his traces press swift hounds and lusty callants. 
So Menelaus joy'd to meet the godlike Alexander 

Beneath his eyes ; for he, in sooth, thought to repay the guilty ; 
And straightway from his chariot leapt to the ground in armour. 

But when the godlike Alexander him disco ver'd sudden 30 

Appearing in the foremost ranks, his tender heart was smitten ; 
And back he to his comrade-troop, avoiding fate, retreated. 
As when a startled man, within the thickets of a mountain, 
Hath sudden met a serpent's eye, his limbs are seiz'd with tremor, 
And helplessly recoileth he, and o'er his cheek is paleness ; 35 

So then, in fear of Atreus' son, did godlike Alexander 
Shrink timorously back, within the crowd of haughty Troians. 
,„- But Hector saw, and bitterly with words of scorn address'd him : 
" 111 omen'd Paris ! fair of face ! seducer ! woman-frenzied ! 
Oh that thou never birth hadst known, or hadst unwedded perish'd! 40 
For this would I prefer for thee, and far more gainful were it, 
Than thus to be a contumely and mark of hate for others. 

Troth ! loud and scornfully do laugh the streaming-hair'd Achaians, 
Who say, that with a face so fair thy prowess in the battle 

30-32. Alexander (Paris) was accoutred in light armour, and quite unpre- 
pared to meet Menelaus. The poet is often obscure on the whole question, 
and seems to forget : thus in v. 339, Menelaus arms, as if not already full-armed. 



book in.] THE ILIAD. 47 

Must needs excel : but thou in soul nor force nor vigour bearest. 45 

Didst thou, with such a heart as that, belov'd companions gather, 

And o'er the briny waters sail in the sea-coursing galleys, 

And, mix'd with men of foreign soil, bear off a beauteous woman, 

A bride of chieftain warriours, from out the land of Apis ; 

A mighty torment to thy sire, the town, and all the country ; 5 

A triumph to thy enemies but to thyself dishonour? 

In sooth 'twas wiser, not to wait for warlike Menelaiis, 

Or put the might of him to proof whose blooming spouse thou holdest. 

For not thy harp would succour thee, nor gifts of Aphrodite, 

Nor tresses nor fair features, when thou wouldst in dust be mingled. 5 5 

But very cravens are the folk ; or thou, long since, in guerdon 

For all the mischief thou hast wrought, wouldst wear a stony tunic." 

But thus responsively to him spake godlike Alexander : 
" With right, and not beyond the right, hast thou reproach'd me, Hector ! 
Ever thy heart unworn doth last, like edge of axe unblunted, 60 
Which by the arm of him, whose skill a galley's timber shapeth, 
Grides through a plank, and mightily the force of man increaseth : 
So in thy bosom undismay'd abideth aye thy purpose. 

Blame not in me the lovely gifts of golden Aphrodite ; 
For not to be rejected are the glorious gifts of heaven, 65 

Which, at their pleasure, gods bestow, and none at will may seize them. 
But now, if still thou wishest me to enter war and combat, 
Cause all the rest to sit at ease, Achaians and Troians, 
But Menelas, by Ares lov'd, match thou with me together, 

Eor Helen and for all her gear in feats of war to bargain. 70 

And whichsoe'er may victor be and mightier in prowess, 
Let him the woman have at home and all her gear around her. 
And ye the rest, well reconcii'd in faithful oaths and friendship, 
Dwell o'er the loamy fields of Troy; but yonder host may voyage 
To courser-feeding Argos and Achaia, fair with women. 75 

He spake: and great was Hector's joy, to hear his brother's errand. 
Along the Troian front he mov'd, and check'd their close battalions, 
Grasping his spear midway; but all stood motionless in order. 
Then many an arrowshot at him the streaming-hair' d Achaians 
Sent eagerly, and many a stone and javelin they darted : 80 



48 THE ILIAD. [book hi. 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, perceiv'd and shouted loudly : 

"Hold, hold, Achaians! dart not, shoot not, warriours of Argos ! 
For Hector, of the motley helm, some word to speak engageth." 

Thus when he spake, they paus'd from fight, and quick were hush'd in 
To listen : then mid both the hosts spake motleyhelmed Hector, [silence, 

" Hear me, ye Troians ! hear me too, ye dapper-greav'd Achaians; 
In Alexander's name I speak, for whom this strife hath risen. 

He biddeth that the rest of us, Achaians and Troians, 
Upon the many-feeding earth put off our beauteous armour; 

But twixt the armies he himself and warlike Menelatis, 90 

For Helen and for all her gear, alone in fight will bargain : 
And whichsoe'er may victor be and mightier in prowess, 
Let him the woman have at home and duly take her dowry, 
And us the rest be reconcil'd in faithful oaths and friendship." 

He ended : and on either side they all were dumb in silence. 95 
Then Menelaiis, good at need, thus spake his word among them. 

" To me too listen, all of you ! for sense of wrong and outrage 
Me chiefly reacheth : now at length I trust to part the combat 
Of Argive and of Troian ; sith many a woe hath pierc'd you 

Out of my quarrel, and on score of Alexander's frenzy. .100 

But of us two whichever be to fate and slaughter destin'd, 

Die let him ; so to you the rest be combat quickly parted. 
Twin lambs of adverse sex bring ye — one wTiite, the other dusky, 
For Earth and heavenly Sun: but we for Jove, will bring another. 
And fetch ye noble Priam's self, to ratify the treaties 105 

In person ; — sith his children are outrageous and faithless ; — 
Lest Jove's high treaties damag'd be by aught of rash transgression. 
For younger men's intentions float unstable and untmsty : 
But if an old man interpose, forward at once and backward 

Glanceth his thought, how either side may best arrange the future." 110 

He spake; and gladden'dby his word both Troians and Achaians, 
With hope that war's calamities their destin'd end were reaching. 
So drew they up their steeds in line, and from their cars dismounted, 
And from their sides the armour stript and on the earth reclin'd it, 
Each army to the other near, with scanty space betwixt them. 115 

Then to the city heralds twain right speedily did Hector 



BOOK III.] 



THE ILIAD. 



49 



Forward dispatch, two lambs to fetch, and bear the call to Priam. 
But royal Agamemnon sent Talthybius on errand 

The smoothly-hollow ships to seek, and bring for the Achaians 
One lamb : nor he unfaithful was to godlike Agamemnon. 



120 



Iris meanwhile as messenger 
In form like to Laodice, 
Antenor's son, in marriage held, 
Helen within her hall she found ; 
Was working, — purple, double web, 



arriv'd to white-arm'd Helen, 
whom royal Helicaon 
— old Priam's fairest daughter, 
but she a mighty tissue 125 

— and many a toil embroider' d 



Of courser-taming Tro'ians and brazen-cloak'd Achaians, 

Which for her sake they still endur'd beneath the hands of Ares. 



Then Iris swift of foot drew near, 

" Lady beloved, hither come, 
Of courser-taming Troians 
Who formerly, across the plain, 
Each upon other bare the rage 
But lo ! in silence sit they now, 



and stood, and spake her message : 
the wondrous deeds to witness 130 
and brazen-cloak'd Achaians ; 
with thirst of deadly contest, 
of tear-abounding Ares : 
and respite have from battle, . 

Leaning upon their shields; and near, are fix'd their lengthy lances. 135 

But Menelaus, lov'd by Ares, — he and Alexander 

In single combat shall for thee with lengthy lances bargain. 

And whoso winneth, him shalt thou as consort dear acknowledge." 
Thus spake the goddess, and within the heart of Helen wafted 

Sweet longings for her ancient lord, her city, and her parents. 

And instantly with limbs enwrapt in folds of gauzy splendour, 

a tender tear distilling, 
beside her, two companions 
and Aethre, Pittheus' daughter. 
— the Sksean gates — arriv'd they; 
Panthous and Thymoetes 
Clytius and Lampus, 
aged alike and prudent, 
high aldermen, were sitting : 



140 



?orth from the bower hurried she. 
But not alone : as retinue 
Attended, — large-ey'd Clymene 
Quickly above the gates of Troy, 
Where, at the royal Priam's side, 
And Hiketaon, branch of Ares, 
Antenor and Ucalegon, 



Over the Sksean gates of Troy, 
Who verily through age were slack for battle ; but in council 
Laborious, to crickets like, which, mid the dewy forest 

Perch'd on a bush, unceasingly their tiny treble quaver : 
145. STcaean gates, i. e. left-hand. 
I. 4 



150 



50 THE ILIAD. [book hi. 

Such then upon the tower sat the leaders of the Troians. 

And when they Helen now beheld on to the tower coming, 

In winged accents softly one made whisper to another : 155 

" For such a woman, none can blame, if dapper-greav'd Achaians 
Against the Troians many a year choose bitter woe to suffer. 
Unto the deathless goddesses her face hath awful likeness. 

Still let her, e'en though such she is, hie homeward in her galleys, 
Nor here be left a pestilence for us and for our children. 160 

While thus they whisper'd, Priam spake, and call'd the name of Helen: 
" Hither advance thee, dearest child, and take thy seat before me, 
To see thy former lord amid his kinsman and his comrades : 

Not upon thee the blame I cast : the gods it is, that grieve me, 
Who from the Achaians visit me with tear-abounding battle. 165 
But come ; declare to me by name this man of bulk majestic, 
Whoso among Achaian men thus comely is and stately. 

For others verily there are of head and stature taller ; 

But nowhere yet so noble form my eyes have e'er encounter'd, 
Nor so magnificent : in troth, a royal man he seemeth." 170 

To him with words responsive spake Helen, divine of women : 
" Dear marriage-father! thou to me art reverend and awful. 
Would that I had contented been with evil death, when hither 
Companion to thy son I came, abandoning my bower, 
My kinsfolk and my darling girl, and lovely friends of childhood. 175 
But such a fate befell me not ; so now I pine with weeping. 
But as for that thou askest me, that shortly will I tell thee : 
This is the elder son of Atreus, princely Agamemnon, 
At once a wisely-ruling king, and eke a doughty spearman. 

To me the vixen-fac'd he once, methinks, was husband's brother." 

As thus she spake, the aged man broke forth in words admiring : 
" Oh blessed son of Atreus, born with favoring gods and fortune, 
How many a bold Achaian youth bows humbly to thy sceptre ! 
Once into vine-clad Phrygia in distant days I enter'd, 

Where men with motley steeds I saw, the many bands of Otreus 185 
And Mygdon,who with gods might cope: such were the Phrygian levies, 
Along the banks of Sangarus encamp'd in close battalions : 

For I, to their alliance join'd, among their ranks was counted, 



Uook in.] THE ILIAD. 51 

When Amazons, a match for men, invaded them with battle. 

Nor yet were these so many, as the curling-ey'd Achaians." 190 

Next, the old man Ulysses saw, and spake, anew inquiring : 
" Come, dearest daughter ; name to me, who is this second hero. 
Shorter is he in stature, than Atrides Agamemnon, 

But broader to the sight, across his mighty chest and shoulders. 
Upon the many-feeding earth his armour lies; and boldly, 195 

Amid the flashing rows of war, like some tame pet, he bustles. 
Unto a ram with solid wool I verily compare him, 

Who through a vast and dazzling flock backward and forward paceth." 

Then Helen, born of Jupiter, to him alternate answer'd : . 
" This is the much-devising man, Laertes' son, Ulysses, 200 

Who on the stony ruggedness of Ithaca was nurtur'd, 
Well-skill'd in various enterprize and craftiness of counsel." 
Then straight to her responsive spake the prudent-soul'd An tenor : 
" Oh Lady ! verily thy word unerringly was utter'd. 

For long ago, on sake of thee, in public errand hither 205 

With Menelaus lov'd by Ares came divine Ulysses. 
Them did I entertain as guests and in my halls befriended, 
And learn'd the features of them both, and heard their prudent counsels. 
Now when amid the gather'd crowd of Troians they mingled, 
While-as they stood, at shoulders' breadth was Menelaus taller, 210 
But of the twain, when down they sat, Ulysses was the grander. 
Whene'er, in full assembly, both did speech and counsels ravel, 
Then Menelaus runningly with curt harangue proceeded. 

Few were his words, but sweet and clear: no windy talker was he, 
Nor rambling from his argument, though he in birth was younger. 21 5 
But when Ulysses much-devising sudden rose before us, 
He stood, and downward cast his eyes, with firm and vacant glances ; 
His sceptre he nor forward stretch'd, nor backward did he wield it, 
But rested on it motionless, like to some empty fellow ; 

Some wild fanatic he might seem, or simpleton all witless. 220 

But when at length from out his chest the mighty voice came gushing, 
And words that hail'd incessantly, like wintry snows exhaustless, 
No longer then might other mortal strive against Ulysses, 
Nor longer did Ulysses' form with admiration fill us. 



52 THE ILIAD. [book hi. 

A third time then the aged man inquir'd, at sight of Ajax : 225 
" What other of Achaian men is that, so grand and goodly. 
With lofty head and shoulders broad preeminent of Argives ? " 

To him then Helen ample-rob'd, divine of women, answer'd : 
" This is the huge majestic Ajax, bulwark of the Achaians ; 
And on one side Idomeneus is seen amid the Cretans, 230 

Like to some god; and round him, lo! the Cretan leaders gather. 
Him Menelaus lov'd by Ares oftentime did welcome 

Within our hospitable home, whene'er from Crete he sallied. 

Now all the rest distinguish I of curling-ey'd Achaians, 
Whom rightly I could recognize and tell their names and titles. 235 
Only my eye discerneth not twin marshals of the people, 

The courser-taming Castor, and strong-fisted Polydeukes : 
Own brothers both to me were they, both children of my mother. 
Did they perchance not join the host from lovely Lacedsemon ? 
Or hither did they voyage take in the sea-coursing galleys, 240 
But now in fight* of warriours reluctant are to mingle, 

Eearing the countless infamy and mockings cast upon me?" 

So fancied she : but them already Earth life-teeming shelter'd 
There, in their own beloved land, their native Lacedaemon. 

But, for the treaties of the gods, heralds along the city 245 

Carried the sacramental gear, twin lambs, and wine propitious, 

Fruit of the earth, in skin of goat ; while, chief of Troian heralds, 
Idseus, a resplendent bowl and golden goblets carried, 

And standing by the aged prince, thus urgently address'd him : 

" Son of Laomedon, arise ! thee now the chieftains summon 250 

Of courser-taming Troians and brazen-cloak'd Achaians, 

To join them on the plain below, and strike a faithful treaty. 
But Menelaus, lov'd by Ares, shall with Alexander, 

In single combat for their spouse, with lengthy lances bargain. 
And whoso winneth, him the wife and all her gear shall follow. 255 
Then too may we, well reconcil'd in faithful oaths and friendship, 
Dwell o'er the loamy fields of Troy; and yonder host shall voyage 
To courser-feeding Argos and Achaia fair with women." 

So spake he : but the aged man shudder'd ; and bade the attendants 
His car to harness : busily the king's command obey'd they. 2 60 



book in.] THE ILIAD. 53 

Then on the seat did Priam mount, and drew to him the bridles, 
And on the car so beautiful Antenor sat beside him : 

Thus thro' the Skseans to the plain held they the nimble coursers. 

But when arriv'd they were, among Achaians and Troians, 
Upon the many-feeding earth they from the car descended, 265 

And station'd them in midmost throng of Troians and Achaians. 
But Agamemnon, prince of men, uprais'd him on the instant ; 
And up the wise Ulysses rose. Thereat, the stately heralds 
Brought mutual the sacred gear ; wine in the bowl they mingled, 
And on the hands of adverse kings sprinkled the holy water. 270 

But Atreus' son with ready hand his hunting-knife unfasten' d, 
Which by his sword's great scabbard hung, companion never absent, 
And shear'd from head of every lamb the forelocks : these the heralds 
Parted and bare among the chiefs of Troians and Achaians. 
For them Atrides loudly pray'd, with hands to heaven lifted : 275 

"Oh father Jove, from Ida ruling, glorious and greatest, 
And Sun, who overseest all, and hearkenest to all things, 

And River gods, and mother Earth, and Ye Below, who punish 
The men whose work is done, — whoe'er a perjur'd oath has utter'd ! 
Be all of you our witnesses, and guard our faithful treaties. 280 

If Alexander win the fight and slaughter Menelaus, 

Then let him keep his foreign wife and all her gear beside her; 
And we the rest will homeward go in our sea-coursing galleys. 
But if the auburn Menelaus slaughter Alexander, 

Then let the Troians straight restore Helen and all her dowry, 285 

And let them pay to us beside a forfeit that is seemly, 
And which to folk as yet unborn may tarry in possession. 
But if, tho' Alexander fall, Priam and Priam's children 

Refuse the treaty to fulfil and pay to me the forfeit, 

Then I, abiding here, will still, on score of that amercement, 290 
In warfare persevere, until I reach the end of battle." [weapon 

He spake, and thro' the victims' throats deep drove the keenedg'd 
Of brass unpitying ; but they upon the ground lay gasping, 

Relax'd and helpless ; for the knife had all their vigour emptied : 
The chiefs then dipping in the bowl took up the wine in goblets, 295 
And to the gods of birth eternal pour'd with invocation. 



54 THE ILIAD. [book hi. 

And thus did one or other speak of Troians and Aehaians : 

" Jove greatest and most glorious! and all ye gods immortal ! 
Whichever side shall work annoy, and first transgress the treaties, 
As thus the wine on earth is spilt, so may their brains be sprinkled, 300 
Theirs and their children's; but their wives a booty be to others !" 

So prayed they; but Saturn's child not yet the vow accomplish'd. 
Then Priam, sprung from Dardanus, thus spake his word among them : 

" Hear me, ye Troians ; hear me too, ye dapper-greav'd Aehaians ! 
Back now to windy Ilium must I return : for never 305 

Could father's eyes endure to see his own beloved offspring 
With Menelaus lov'd of Ares join in deadly battle. 

Haply 'tis known to Jupiter and other gods immortal, 

For which of these two combatants the end of death is destin'd." 

So spake the godlike man; and plac'd upon his car the victims ; 310 
Then mounted he the seat himself, and drew to him the bridles, 
And on the car so beautiful Antenor sat beside him : 

Thus back to Ilium the twain did sorrowfully travel. 

Then with divine Ulysses' aid Hector the son of Priam 
First measur'd out the ground for fight; thereafter, each producing 315 
A lot for either chief, within the brazen-plated helmet 

Shuffled and shook to see which first should hurl the brazen weapon. 
Then all the peoples made their pray'r, with hands to heaven lifted, 
And thus did one or other speak of Troians and Aehaians : 

" Oh father Jove, from Ida ruling, glorious and greatest ! 320 

Whichever chieftain of the twain hath put this work betwixt us, 
Grant that his life its refuge make within the house of Pluto, 
And we the rest be reconcil'd in faithful oaths and friendship." 
So spake they; but with eyes revers'd great motley-helmed Hector 
Toss'd up the morion; and swift out leapt the lot of Paris. 325 

Then all in either host did take their seat in comely order, 
Where stood their nimblefooted steeds and lay their curious armour. 
But round his shoulders thereupon the godlike Alexander, 
Lord ofthebright-hair'd Helen, plac'd his all-resplendent harness. 
First on his shins the dapper greaves, with silver anklets clever, 330 
He fasten'd; but, to guard his chest, his brother dear, Lycaon, 
Lent him a corslet of his own ; but him it fitted bravely. 



book in.] THE ILIAD. 55 

About his shoulders next he slung a sword with silver studded, 
Brazen of edge ; and after it his buckler great and stubborn : 335 

And on his gallant head he put a leathern helm well-plated, 
Bushy with horsetail ; dreadfully the crest above it nodded : 
Last, pick'd he out a sturdy spear unto his grasp adapted. 
So warlike Menelaus too equipp'd himself for battle. 

When thus apart from either host the twain were well accoutred, 340 
In measur'd step their posts they took mid Troians and Achaians, 
With dreadful glances. Deep amazement held the hearts of gazers, 
Both courser-taming Troians and dapper-greav'd Achaians. 

There, at short distance, stood they both, upon the ground appointed, 
Their adverse lances brandishing, indignant each at other. 345 

First Alexander forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow 
And hit the shield of Atreus' son which equal was on all sides ; 
Nor might the metal force its way, but first the point was broken, 
By the bluff shield resisted. Next, Atrides Menelaus, 
With pray'r to father Jupiter, prepar'd to hurl his weapon. 350 

" Grant vengeance, royal Jove ! tome, and neath my hands lay pro- 
The godlike Alexander, who in injury was foremost: [strate 

That e'en in late posterity, each may hereafter shudder, 

Mischief to work against a host who op'd his doors in friendship." 

He spake; and poising, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
And hit the shield of Priam's son which equal was on all sides. 
Right thro' the shield's resplendency hurtled the massy weapon, 
And thro' the corslet's crafty work with rush uncheck'd was planted : 
Close to his side from front to back it glided thro' the tunic, 
Harmless; for quick the hero flinch' d and gloomy fate avoided. 360 
Thereat, the son of Atreus drew his sword with silver studded, 
And rising smote the helmet's ridge : but instantly the weapon 
Out of his hand all aidless dropt, threefold and fourfold shiver'd. 
Then gazing up to heaven high, the son of Atreus groaned : 

" Oh father Jove, of all the gods none is, like thee, malignant. 365 
For all his baseness, troth! I thought to punish Alexander; 
But now within my hands the sword is broken ; and the jav'lin 
Was vainly darted from my arm, nor have I hit my foeman." 

He spake, and wildly rushing, seiz'd the helmet thick with horsetail, 



56 THE ILIAD. [book hi. 

And twisting haul'd his foe toward the dapper-greav'd Achaians. 370 
But him, around his tender neck, the embrcider'd strap was choking, 
Which to his triplecrested casque beneath his chin was fasten'd. 
Then surely had he dragged him off and earn'd surpassing glory, 
But that Jove's daughter Aphrodite speedily perceiv'd it, 
And burst in twain the leathern thong of the bull stoutly slaughter'd,375 
And empty in his broad hand left the triplecrested helmet. 
The hero thereupon, amid the'dapper-greav'd Achaians, 

Toss'd it with whirl indignant: but his comrades dear regain'd it. 
Then back again with brazen lance against his helmless foeman 
He rush'd, all eagerness to slay : but him did Aphrodite 380 

Rescue, as gods do, easily, and wrapp'd in mist abundant, 

And cradled him in fragrancy, within his perfum'd bower. 

Again then sallied she herself, Helen to call : and found her 
Upon a tower high ; and round were Troian women many. 
The goddess seizing with her hand the robe that breath'd of nectar,385 
Took it, beneath the semblance hid of an eld-stricken woman, 
Who, diligent of carding wool, in beauteous tasks was skilful, 
And greatly Helen lov'd, when She dwelt yet in Lacedeemon. 
In such similitude, to her spake heav'nly Aphrodite. 

" Come hither! Alexander calls: at home he claims thy presence. 390 
There in his bower tarries he, upon his turned sofa, 
With garb and beauty glistening : and not from fight of heroes 
Wouldst thou pronounce him fresh arriv'd, but to the dance proceeding, 
Or, haply ! in the dance fatigu'd, and resting from the labour." 

She spake,and strongly did bestir the woman's heart within her. 395 
Nor yet was Helen slow to mark the eyes divinely sparkling, 
And eke the neck so glorious, and that immortal bosom : 
She knew, and marvell'd at the sight, and spake, her name pronouncing: 

" Oh elf-possessed being ! why delightest to cajole me? 
Dost haply, out at Phrygia or beautiful Meeonia, 400 

Within some thickly-peopled town, desire to plant me further ? 
If, there too, thou some darling hast of voice-dividing mortals. 
And now, because that Menelas to godlike Alexander 
Hath prov'd in war superiour, and homeward fain would carry 
Me, hateful wight; dost therefore now with cunning guile beset me ? 405 



BOOK III. 



THE ILIAD. 57 



Go then, and sit thee by his side ; the path of gods forsake thou, 

Nor let thy feet their courses bend hereafter to Olympus \ 

But toil for ever, him to serve ; keep sentinel around him, 

Until he take thee for his wife, or haply for his bondslave. 

But I, not thither wend my way, — for troth ! it were a scandal, — 410 

Around his bed to minister ; lest all the Troian women 

Mock me hereafter : now, enough of woes uncounted bear I." 

But her, celestial Aphrodite angrily accosted : 
" Provoke me not, thou insolent ! lest I in wrath forsake thee, 
And such be then my enmity, as now my love is wondrous. 415 
And lest against thee I devise, in both, a bitter hatred, — 
Both Troians and Danai : then vilely wouldst thou perish." 

But Helen, born of Jupiter, hearing such answer, trembled. 
Wrapt in a veil of dazzling white, proceeded she in silence, 
By Troian women all unseen ; for why ? the goddess led her. 420 

But when, in Alexander's house all gorgeous they enter'd, 
Her two attendants actively to diverse work betook them, 

But she, divine of women, sought her lofty-roofed chamber. 
For her, the heavenly Queen of Smiles, immortal Aphrodite, 
Carried and plac'd a double chair in front of Alexander. 425 

Thereon did Helen, brilliant imp of Jove the segis-holder, 
Sit, with her two eyes turn'd away, and sharply chode her consort : 

" Art come from battle ? on the field 'twas thy desert to perish, 
Slain by a mighty warriour, in olden time my husband. 

Oft was in former days thy boast that thou, than Menelaus 430 

By Ares lov'd, wast mightier with sword and spear and prowess. 

But, front to front, do thou again a challenge send for combat 
To Menelas, by Ares lov'd. But no ! in sooth I counsel 

To check thy haughty fancies, nor with auburn Menelaus 
In battle's perilous debate with equal weapons venture, 435 

Imprudently ; lest haply soon his javelin subdue thee." 

To her with words reciprocal spake princely Alexander : 
"Oh lady! wound not thou my soul with bitterness of insult. 



426. Imp, i.e. graft, scion ; hence in high style, offspring ; as with the Grreek 
tragedians ernos, 



58 THE ILIAD. [book iit. 

Now, by Athene's aid, for once hath Menelaus conquer'd ; 

Again shall J o'er him prevail : for gods me also succour. 440 

But come ! in dear companionship upon the couch repose we. 

For never yet so much did love my very soul encompass, — 

Not even, when in early day from lovely LacedEemon 

I snatch'd thee as my prize, and sail'd in the sea-coursing galleys, 

And on the isle of Cranae in bed and fondness held thee, — 445 

As now the sweet desire of thee hath ta'en my bosom captive." 

Thus speaking s to the couch he led, and with him went his consort ; 
So mid the perforated frames the twain repos'd in secret. 

But Atreus' son, amid the crowd, like some wild beast was stalking, 
If here he might, or there, espy the godlike Alexander. 450 

But no one of the Troians, nor of the allies so famous, 

To Menelas, by Ares lov'd, might Paris then discover : 

Tho' not from tenderness, I ween, had any spar'd to show him ; 
Tor, like to black destruction, abhorr'd was he by all men. 
Then Agamemnon, prince of men, thus spake his word among them : 

"Troians and Dardans and allies! unto my summons listen! 
To Menelas, by Ares lov'd, the victory hath fallen. 

Do ye then Argive Helen yield and all her gear around her, 
Pull speedily ; and pay beside a forfeit that is seemly, 
And which to folk as yet unborn may tarry in possession." 460 

Atrides spake : and at his word the Achaian army shouted. 



59 



BOOK IV. 

JN ow by the side of Jove the gods were in full session gather'd, 
Over the golden pavement ; and among them, queenly Hebe 
The nectar flagon bare around; but they, in golden goblets, 
Gave welcome each to each, toward the Troian city gazing. 
Then instantly did Saturn's child with contumelious banter 5 

Endeavour Juno to provoke by keen harangue allusive. 

"To Menelas, from heaven's band twain goddesses are helpers, — 
Athene, war-repelling maid, and Juno queen of Argos. 

Yet they afar from him do sit and cast but glance upon him, 
Petain'din self-enjoyment; while to Paris, Aphrodite, 10 

The queen of Smiles, Is sentinel, and screeneth him from danger ; 
And now anew hath rescued him, when desperate his fortune. 
— To Menelaus, lov'd by Ares, victory hath fallen : 
Our part it is to ponder, how may these affairs be ended. 

Whether pernicious war to rouse and the grim cry of battle, 15 

Listeth, or amity betwixt the combatants to order. 

But if, to all of us aloft, pleasant it be and canny, 

Let folk still throng within the walls of Priam's royal city, 
And Argive Helen be again the boast of Menelaus." 

He spake: thereat they mutter'd deep, both Juno and Athene : 20 
Close sat they, side by side, and woes against the Troians plotted. 
Truly Athene dumb abode before her proper father, 

Though wounded by his argument and seiz'd with fierce displeasure. 
But Juno hid not in her breast her wrath, but thus address'd him : 

"0 son of Saturn, grim and dire, what saying hast thou blurted ? 25 
How meanest thou my work to make empty and unrewarded, 
And all my moil and all my sweat? My very steeds are weary, 
The people gathering, for woe to Priam and his children, 
Do so : but we, the other gods, not all shall praise thy doing." 

To her with indignation huge spake Jove the cloud-collector : 30 



60 THE ILIAD. [book it. 

" Oh elf-possessed wight ! do then Priam and Priam's children 

So many mischiefs work on thee, that eagerly thou longest 

To storm and ravage Ilium, that thickly-peopled fortress ? 

If through the gates thou mightest pass, within the long defences, 

And there, as cannibal, devour Priam, and Priam's children, 35 

And all the Troians, then mayhap thy choler would be healed. 

Work thou thy will against them, lest in aftertime the quarrel 

Into a mighty fray arise of Jupiter with Juno. 

This also will I say, — and thou within thy mind revolve it ! 

When I, in turn outrageous, am bent some town to ravage, 40 

A town, wherein are born and rear'd the favourites of Juno ; 

Then seek not thou to dissipate my rage, but yield it freedom : 

For I too this to thee concede, freely, with heart reluctant. 

For verily, of all the towns which men on earth inhabit, 

Beneath the beams of yonder sun, beneath the starry heaven, 45 

Not one than sacred Ilium to my regards is dearer, 

And Priam's self, and all the folk of ashen-speared Priam. 

For never hath my altar wanted well-proportioned banquet, 

And fragrant fat, and streams of wine; which are our proper honour." 

To him responded thereupon the large-ey'd queenly Juno : 50 
" Three cities verily to me in all the world are dearest, — 

Achaian Argos, Sparta and Mycenae ample-streeted. 

Destroy and ravage these, whene'er they to thy soul are hateful : 
These to defend I stand not forth nor grudge thee thy indulgence. 
For if thy angry will I thwart, and seek to stay their ruin, 55 

I by the struggle nothing win ; for greatly art thou stronger. 
Yet some regard should I too meet, lest fruitless be my labour : 
For I am, e'en as thou, a god: — from the same source our being; — 
And eldest born I claim to be of crooked-witted Saturn, 
Eldest by birth, and rank also ; for that I hold the title 60 

Thy wedded queen to be; and thou mid all the immortals reignest. 
And now, if mutually we concession make alternate, 

I unto thee, thou unto me ; the other gods immortal 

Our primacy will own. But thou quickly dispatch Athene 
Into the deadly battle-cry of Troians and Achaians, 65 

To compass, that the Troians may first against the treaties, 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 61 

Begin with noyance to assail the high-renown'd Achaians." 

Nor did the Sire of men and gods resist, when thus she pleaded ; 
But instantly with winged words address' d him to Athene : 

" Hie to the army speedily, mid Troians and Achaians ; 70 
And compass, that the Troians may first, against the treaties, 
Begin with noyance to assail the high-renown'd Achaians." 

He by such charge Athene spurr'd, herself already eager ; 
And, speedy darting, down she came from summits of Olympus. 
In such aspect, as when the son of crooked-witted Saturn 75 

Sendeth a shining meteor, a prodigy to sailors 

Or to some army's ample ranks ; and trails of light it flasheth ; — 
In such appearance, down to earth maiden Athene darted, 
Plumping amid them. Deep amazement held the hearts of gazers, 
Both courser-taming Troians and dapper-greav'd Achaians. 80 

And thus spake one, with eye that glanc'd upon some other near him : 

"Either again pernicious war and the grim cry of battle 
Shall visit us, or Jupiter, the arbiter to mortals 

Of war and peace, will amity betwixt the armies order.*' 

So then did one or other speak of Troians and Achaians. 85 

But she, in semblance as a man, — like to a sturdy spearman, 
Laodocus, Antenor's son, — the crowd of Troians enter'd, 

Searching for godlike Pandarus, if here or there she find him. 
And soon she found the warriour, — Lycaon's spotless offspring, 
Standing: and all around were pour'd the shielded stout battalions 90 
Of men, who from Aisepus' streams beneath his guidance folio w'd. 
There, near before his face, she stood and winged accents utter'd : 
*' Wilt thou, mayhap, my word receive, Lycaon's skilful offspring? 
Art brave enough, a speedy shaft to send at Menelaus ? 
This would, with all the Troians, favour and glory win thee, 95 

And signally among them all with royal Alexander. 

Erom him thou earnest instantly full many a brilliant present, 
If he might Atreus' son behold, the warlike Menelaus, 
Mounting upon the deadly pile, a trophy to thy arrows. 
But come ! an arrow-shot address to famous Menelaus ; 100 

And to the archer-deity, the Lycia-born Apollo, 

101. Lycia-born. Some think the word means born of light. In the Iliad, 
Apollo is not god of the sun, nor is connected with Delos. 



62 THE ILIAD. [book iv. 

Vow, an illustrious hecatomb of firstling lambs to offer, 

When safe unto thy home restor'd, Zeleia's sacred city." 

Athene, thus addressing him, his silly heart persuaded. 
Quick he uncas'd the polish'd bow, made from a bounding ibex, 105 
Which as from out a rock it came, himself in ambush waiting 
Hit on the chest, and back it fell upon the hard earth prostrate. 
The horns that from its forehead grew were sixteen palms in measure. 
These the horn-bowyer duly scrap'd and joined with cunning labour;110 
Then polishing, at either end a golden ring he added. 

Low resting this against the ground, Lycaon's brilliant offspring 
Strung it; and his companions brave before him held their bucklers, 
Lest, ere he reach the warlike lord, Achaian Menelaus, 
Haply Achaia's warlike sons start sudden up to shield him. 115 

But he the quiver's lid uprais'd, and thence a shaft selected 
Perfect in feather, never shot, a germ of dismal anguish. 
Quickly did he upon the string adjust the stinging arrow, 
And to the archer-deity, the Lycia-born Apollo, 

Vow'd, an illustrious hecatomb of firstling lambs to offer, 120 

When safe unto his home restor'd, Zeleia's sacred city : 
Then seiz'd the arrow at the notch and smoothly drew the oxgut, 
And brought the string against his breast, against the bow the iron. 
But when the mighty bow was strain'd to well-proportion'd circle, 
The arch recoii'd,loud shriek'd the string, and forth the arrow darted, 125 
W T hetted for murder, all a-rage amid the crowd to hurtle. 

Nor, Menelaus ! of thy life the blessed gods immortal 
Forgetful were; and foremost came Jove's booty-driving daughter, 
Who, standing vigilant, repell'd the shaft with anguish freighted. 
She from the flesh the dart beat off so far, as may a mother 130 

Beat from her boy a fly, when he in pleasant sleep reposeth. 
Athene's self with guiding hand upon the girdle brought it, 
Where golden buckles join'd, and where the corslet met it double : 
There, on the girdle fitly set, lighted the stinging arrow. 

Eight through the girdle's broidery it cut an easy passage, 135 

And thro' the corslet's crafty work with force uncheck'd was planted : 

117. I venture to treat herma as equivalent to Lat. germen and gemma. 
In iEsch. Suppl. I think it means germ, where it is ridiculously rendered 
lallast. In the plural the word confessedly means jewels. Compare ernos. 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 63 

The baldric, which, for fence of darts, did clasp his tender body, 
Warded the mischief bravely ; yet thro' even this it pierced. 
Spent in its force, the arrow-shot but skin-deep graz'd the hero, 
And from the gash the blood straightway in cloudy streamlet trickled. 140 
As when some dame of Maeonis or Caria distaineth 
With Punic dye the ivory to be a horse's cheek-piece ; 

Within her chamber stor'd it is, and vainly many a horseman 
Prayeth to bear it ; there it waits, to grace a king's equipment, 
Alike, a beauty to the steed, and to the driver glory : 145 

Such, Menelaus ! was thy side, from noble thigh and downward 
Unto thy comely ankle, seen, — - w r ith crimson all distained. 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, shudder'd thereat in terror, 
When he from out the gash beheld the dusky gore descending. 
And Menelaus too himself, belov'd of Ares, shudder'd: 150 

But when he saw the leathern strap and barbs, outside remaining, 
Into his bosom back again his spirit he recover'd. 

Then holding Menelaus' hand, did royal Agamemnon 
Speak with deep moan; and after him moan'd also his companions. 

"Dear brother ! deadly to thy life, alas ! a treaty made I, 155 

Against the Troians posting thee sole champion for Argos : 
So have the Troians wounded thee, and trodden down the treaty. 
But verily not vain are oaths and streams of wine unmingled 

And blood of lambs and right hands pledg'd, wherein we had confided. 
Por even if the Olympian have not at once fulfill'd them, 160 

Yet will he, late of time, fulfil : then men with great amercement, 
By their own heads, and by their wives and children, have repaid it. 
For this, in heart and soul, full sure I know : — a day is coming. 
A day, when sacred Ilium for overthrow is destin'd, 

And Priam's self and all the folk of ashen-spear'd Priam; 165 

When lofty-bench'd Saturnius, Jove, who in heaven dwelleth, 
Wrathful at this deceit, himself shall flout his gloomy segis 
Against them all. Not then, in sooth ! fruitless will be the curses ; 
But anguish giim on me shall fall for thee, Menelaus ! 
If thus thou die, accomplishing thy life's predestin'd portion. 170 
With vile reproaches back shall I go to much-thirsted Argos : 
Por memory of their native land straightway will move the Argives : 



04 THE ILIAD. [book iv. 

Then should we for a glory leave to Priam and the Troians 
The Argive Helen; while thy bones within the loam shall moulder 
Abandon'd here in Troy, — to us a monument of failure. 175 

And thus, I reckon, then shall speak some overweening Troian, 
Leaping along the barrow mound of famous Menelaus : 
Oh, would that Agamemnon might on all so wreak his vengeance, 
As hither fruitlessly he led his army of Achaians ! 

And lo ! he to his home is gone, to his dear native country, 180 
With empty galleys, — leaving here the worthy Menelaus. — 
So shall one say hereafter : — then, may the earth yawn to gulp me." 
But auburn Menelaus spake, his brother's heart to strengthen : 
"Be of good cheer! 'tis yet too soon the Achaian host to frighten : 
Not in a mortal part is fix'd the pointed dart : my girdle 185 

AU-broider'd warded it in front, and eke the sash and baldric, 
My under-furbishing, which men, who work in copper, labor'd." 

To him with words reciprocal spake royal Agamemnon : 
" Oh that it so may really be, beloved Menelaus ! 
But the chirurgeon shall probe the noyance, and assuagements 190 
Spread in, which haply may afford reliefs of dismal anguish." 

This said, — unto Talthybius, herald divine, he turn'd him : 
" Talthybius ! with utmost speed Machaon hither summon, 
The son of iEsculapius, chirurgeon unblemish'd. 

Straight must he visit Atreus' son, the warlike Menelaus, 195 

At whom some skilful archer hand hath aim'd an arrow truly, 
— Glory to him, but woe to us, — or Lycian or Troian." 

He spake ; nor disobedient the herald heard his bidding, 

But sped to go along the host of dapper-greav'd Achaians, 
Peering to see Machaon' s form ; and soon espied the hero 200 

Standing: and all around were pour'd the shielded stout battalions 
Of men, who with him companied from courser-feeding Tricca. 
There,near before his face, he stood, and winged accents utter'd : 

" Bise ! son of iEsculapius ! king Agamemnon calleth. 
Quick must thou visit Atreus' son, the warlike Menelaus, 205 

At whom some skilful archer-hand hath aim'd an arrow truly, 
— Glory to him, but woe to us, — or Lycian, or Troian." 
He spake, and strongly did bestir the hero's heart within him. 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 65 

So they, returning, hied along Achaia's ample army 
Amid the crowd. But when they came where auburn Menelaus 210 

Was wounded, and in circle thick around him all the noblest 
Were gathered, and midst of them the godlike man was standing ; 
First would Machaon pull the shaft from the well-fitting girdle, 
But that the pointed barbs were snapt and tangled, as he drew it. 
Then from his waist unfasten'd he the girdle all-embroider' d, 215 

The sash, and baldric underneath, which smiths of copper labor'd. 
But when he saw the wound, wherein lighted the stinging arrow, 
He suck'd from it the blood, and spread within it mild assuagements, 
Which friendly-hearted Cheiron once unto his sire imparted. 

While Menelaus, good at need, in such concerns detain'd them, 220 
Meantime the shielded Troians in close array were present ; 
The others too their armour donn'd, and hero-glee remember'd. 
Then not a-slumber hadst thou seen the godlike Agamemnon, 
Nor like a coward skulking low and from the fight reluctant, 
But all a-blaze with eagerness for man-ennobling combat. 225 
For he his car with brass inlaid and harness'd steeds abandon'd : 
Snorting and puffing, them his squire, offspring of Ptolemaeus, 
Eurymedon, Peiraeus' grandchild, rein'd behind the tumult. 
To him he many charges gave at hand to have them alway, 
When weariness might seize his limbs, long marshalling the peoples; 230 
But he himself, on foot proceeding, view'd the ranks of heroes. 
Whome'er he saw industrious of charioteering Argives, 

Beside them standing, thus he spake to whet their proper courage: 

"Argives! not yet remission make of furious encounter ! 
Never will father Jupiter of lies become a patron:' 285 

But they who wilfully have wrought annoy, against the treaties, 
The vultures on their tender flesh shall surely make a banquet. 
And in our galleys we, whene'er their fortress we may capture, 
Shall bear their darling wives away and eke their infant offspring." 

But whomsoe'er again he saw relax'd from hateful warfare, 240 
These did he vehemently chide with argument embitter'd : [you ? 

" Oh Argive braggarts! theme for scorn! and doth no shame possess 
Why thus aghast and stupified, in guise of fawns, abide ye ? 
As these, — when they, by lengthen' d race over the plain, are weary, — 

5 



66 THE ILIAD. [book iv. 

Stand still,nor in their empty hearts is any courage gender'd ; 24 5 

So ye, like fawns, stand stupified, nor make the battle ready. 
What ? wait ye, till the Troians come nearer, where our galleys 
With ample poops aloft are haul'd above the hoary billow, 
That so ye try, if Saturn's child will stretch his hand to save you ?" 

Thus marshalling, proceeded he beside the thick battalions. 250 
Moving along the troop of men, then came he to the Cretans, 
Who, round the sage Idomeneus, accoutrement were making. 
Their chief was in the foremost ranks, like to a boar in prowess, 
While, to exhort the rearmost bands, Meriones was active. 
Then Agamemnon, prince of men, at sight of them was joyous, 255 
And instantly with honey'd words Idomeneus accosted : 

"Chiefly, Idomeneus! to thee of charioteering Argives 
Honour I give, — alike in war, and eke in diverse action, 
And at the pleasant banquet, where the noblest of the Argives 
Mix in the bowl the sparkling wine which age hath duly ripen'd. 260 
For verily, whereas the rest of streaming-hair'd Achaians 

Drink by the portion, yet for thee, as for myself, the goblet 
Standeth beside me alway full, to drink, when humour urgeth. 
But such as formerly thy boast, such rouse thee now to battle." 

To him in turn Idomeneus, the Cretan chief, responded : 265 
"0 son of Atreus, verily will I thy lov'd companion 

Be, even as in olden time I promis'd and assented ; 

But others rather stir thou up of streaming-hair'd Achaians, 
That we incontinent may close in battle ; since the Troians 
The oaths have voided; but on them shall death and woes hereafter 270 
Alight, who wilfully have wrought annoy, against the treaties." 

So answer'dhe; and Atreus' son pass'd on, in heart delighted. 
Moving along the troop of men, he came to the Ajaces : 
Both were full-arm'd, and after them a cloud of footmen follow'd. 
As when a goatherd may a cloud behold from some tall summit, 275 
Moving across the deep, beneath the blaring of the Westwind; 
To him, as he apart doth stand, dusky like pitch it seemeth, 
O'ershadowing the waters drear, and a thick squall it carries \ 
He sees and shudders, and his flock beneath a cavern driveth : 
Such the Jove-nurtur'd warriours along with the Ajaces 280 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 67 

Mov'd onward into foeman's war in closely-wedg'd battalions, 
In a broad shade of blue confus'd, with shields and lances bristling. 
Then Agamemnon, prince of men, at sight of them was joyous, 
And duly he accosting them did winged accents utter : 

"Ajaces! who twain captains are of brazen-coated Argives, 285 

To you no charge — (for need is none) — make I to urge your peoples ; 
For ye yourselves do eagerly to sturdy battle whet them. 

Would that I found (0 father Jove, Athene and Apollo !) 
In all my chiefs such enterprize within the bosom planted ! 
Then quickly should king Priam's city bow the head before me, 290 
Captur'd and pillag'd mightily beneath the hands of Argives." 

So saying, them he left behind, but after others hasted. 
Next met he Nestor, clear of voice, the Pylian haranguer, 
Ranging his comrades carefully, and stirring them to battle : 
Amid them, mighty Pelagon, and, shepherd of the people, 295 

Bias, and Haemon wide of sway, and Chromis and Alastor. 
In front his charioteers he plac'd, with chariots and horses, 
But, for the rearguard, posted he his footmen brave and many, 
A bulwark of the war to be : and set his worser people 299 

Pull in the midst, where each perforce, despite his will, must combat. 
First to the charioteers he gave his charges : these, discreetly 
Bade he to hold their steeds, nor dare in mell of war to justle. 
"Let none, on charioteering skill or bravery reliant, 
Hanker for solitary fight in front, against the Troians : 

Nor yet retire ; for easier will then be your despoilment. 305 

If any seek another's car, his proper horses leaving, 

Let him with lengthy lance reach out : this managery is better. 
For thus the men of former days did walls and cities capture, 
Such prudence and such enterprize within their bosom holding." 

So did the aged man exhort, of old in warfare skilful. 310 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, at sight of him was joyous, 
And duly then accosting him did winged accents utter : 

"Would that, aged friend, as now the heart in thy dear bosom, 
So did thy knees bear company, and so thy force were steady ! 
But on thee Eld all-levelling leans hard. I would some other 

Of men might barter it, and thou hold lot among the younger." 316 



68 THE ILIAD. [book iv. 

But him thereat the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 

" Atrides ! glad in sooth were I myself to feel the vigour, 
Which godlike Ereuthalion once fatally encounter'd. 

But not to mortal men do gods grant every thing together. 320 
If then a stalwart youth I was, and now doth Eld o'ertake me, 
Yet with the charioteers do I keep company, and charge them 

With counsel and with argument ; which is the old man's duty. 
In fight of spear the spear to wield, to younger men is suited, 
Who are than Nestor later-born, and confident of puissance." 325 

So answer'd he; and Atreus' son pass'd on, in heart delighted. 
He found the son of Peteos, Menestheus courser-smiting, 

Standing amid the Athenians, sage counsellors of onset. 
Hard by, Ulysses much-devising stood, and round him rested 
The ranks of Kephallenians, no easy prey to spoilers ; 330 

For their battalions not yet had heard the yell of onset ; 

For newly were the columns deep of courser-taming Troians, 
And of Achaians, stirr'd to war , so they at ease were waiting 
Inactive, until otherwhence some tower of Achaians, 

Bushing against the Troians, initiate the hurly. 335 

Them Agamemnon, prince of men, reproachfully regarded, 
And bitterly accosting them, did winged accents utter : 

" Offspring of kingly Peteos ! son of a sire Jove-nurtur'd ! 
And thou, with fox's puny heart, in evil wiles excelling ! 
Why stand ye crouching in the rear, and wait the lead of others ? 340 
For you it seemly were to stand, companions of the foremost, 
Eight in the van, and bluffly meet the brunt of fiery battle. 
For of a banquet both of you from me have early notice, 

When for the counsellors a feast at Argive cost we furnish. 
There to regale on roasted flesh, as listeth you, and empty 345 

Honey-sweet wine from out the cup, is pleasanter than combat. 
Now would ye willingly look on, though ten embattled towers 
Of Argives, far in front of you, with ruthless brass were fighting." 

To him with frowning glance replied Ulysses much-devising : 349 
" Betwixt the outwork of thy teeth what word hath slipt, Atrides ? 
What negligence of war dost find in us ? whene'er the Achaians 
Against the courser-taming Troians waken eager Ares, 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 69 

Then shaltthou,if thou wilt, behold, and if such things concern thee, 
Telemachus' beloved sire with courser-taming Troians 

Mix'd in their foremost ranks : but thou dost wind and folly utter." 355 

But royal Agamemnon then, his wrathful mood perceiving, 
Upon him smil'd, and instantly again took up discourses : 

" Oh Jove-deriv'd, Laertes' son, Ulysses much-contriving, 
Needless to thee my banter is, and needless my addresses. 
For surely do I know, the heart within thy deepest bosom 360 

Hath friendly ponderings for me ; for such thy aims, as mine are. 
But come, if aught amiss hath now been blurted, this hereafter 
Will we adjust : and may the gods make all my bodings empty !" 
So saying, them he left behind, but after others hasted. 

The son of Tydeus next he found, high-hearted Diomedes, 365 

Standing amid the horses and the chariots welljoined. 
Beside him Sthenelus, the son of Capaneus, was standing. 
Then royal Agamemnon cast reproachful glance upon him, 

And bitterly accosting him did winged accents utter : 

"Alas! thou son of skilful-hearted courser-taming Tydeus ! 370 

Why crouchest thou and peerest far along the battle's causeys ? 
But not to Tydeus thus, I trow, to skulk behind was pleasant, 
But far in front, against the foe, for comrades dear, to sally. 
Such was their tale, who watch'd his work; but as for me, — I never 
Met him nor saw him; but they say, surpassing was his valour. 375 

Once truly came he, not with war, as stranger, to Mycenae 
With Polyneikes, match for gods, an army to assemble, 
Who in those days would march against the sacred walls of Thebe ; 
And for choice helpers of the fray they eagerly besought us. 
Willing were we the men to grant, and to their prayer hearken'd, 380 
But Jupiter diverted us, illomen'd signs displaying. 

Now when they were set forth and gone far onward in their journey, 
Unto Asopus' banks they came, all deep in grass and rushes : 
Whence Tydeus by the league was sent to speak their common message. 
He on the ambassy went forth, and found Cadmeians many, 385 
Feasting within the palaces of mighty Eteocles. 

Then, tho' a stranger in their walls, the courser-driving Tydeus 
No terror knew, when lonely left amid Cadmeians many. 



70 THE ILIAD. [book iv. 

But he to combats challeng'd them, and won in every contest 

Eight easily: such aid to him maiden Athene granted. 390 

But the Cadmeians courser-spurring, hotly wroth against him, 

To compass his returning steps, planted in secret ambush 

A band of fifty warriours ; and twain to them were leaders, 

The offspring of Autophonus, war-biding Lycophontes, 

And Mason, Hsemon's son, who bare the form of an immortal. 395 

Yet Tydeus even upon these unseemly doom inflicted ; 

He slaughter'd all, and left but one to bear the tiding homeward : — 

Mseon he spared, obedient to prodigies from heaven. 

Such Tydeus, that Aetolian, was once ; but leaves an offspring 

Worser than him in fight of men, in council haply braver." 400 

When thus he chided, no reply gave stalwart Diomedes, 
In reverence before the mouth of the majestic monarch. 
But quick to him replied the son of Capaneus the famous : 

"Atrides, speak not falsely, when rightly to speak thou knowest. 
For us, our boast it is to be far better than our fathers : 405 

TJs,who have storm'd the fast abode of seven-gated Thebe, 
Leading beneath her fortress-wall a scantier equipment, 
Yet trusting to the aid of Jove and prodigies from heaven. 
But by its own impieties that former host was ruin'd : 

Then never place our sires with us in the same rank of honour." 410 

But stalwart Diomedes now with frowning glance address'd him: 
" Dear fellow, still and silent be, to my request compliant. 
No blame have I for Agamemnon, shepherd of the people, 
Who now to feats of war doth urge the dapper-greav'd Achaians. 
For to his throne will glory great be added, if the Troians 415 

Fall slain, and sacred Ilium be storm'd by us Achaians : 

On him too mighty grief will light, if our array be routed. 
But come, let us too bend a thought to furious encounter." 

He spake, and from his chariot leapt to the ground in armour : 
And dreadful was the clang of brass upon the prince's bosom 420 

Asdownheplung'd: e'en hardy souls it might have fill'd with terror. 

As when the surges of the sea, beneath a Westwind's pressure, 
Upon the muchresounding beach, line after line, come rolling; 
First, in the deep it heaveth high ; then, by the strand retarded, 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 71 

With screech and roar it steepeneth, till, hollow at the summit, 425 
Sputtering the briny spray abroad, the huge crest tumbles over : 
So then the bands of Danai, closewedg'd, to war were moving, 

Line after line, incessantly ; to his own troops each leader 

His orders spake, but dumbly went the rest, (nor wouldst thou fancy 
So vast a train of people held a voice within their bosom), 430 
In silence their commanders fearing: all the ranks well-marshall'd 
Were clad in crafty panoply, which glitter'd on their bodies. 

Meantime, as sheep, within the yard of some great cattle-master, [less 
While the white milk is drain'd from them, stand round in number count- 
And, grieved by their lambs' complaint, respond with bleat incessant ;43 5 
So then along their ample host arose the Troian hurly. 
For not to all the language was the same, nor like their accent, 
But mingled was the tongue of men from diverse places summon'd. 
By Ares these were urged on, those by grey-ey'd Athene, 
By Fear, by Panic and by Strife immeasurably eager, 440 

The sister and companion of hero-slaying Ares, 

Who truly doth at first her crest but humble rear ; thereafter, 
Planting upon the ground her feet, her head in heaven iixeth. 
She then, proceeding through the bands, infus'd the love of quarrel, 
A common curse; — and multiplied the miseries of heroes. 445 

When, to encounter hasting, they were on one spot assembled, [roes 
Hides clash'd on hides, and spear on spear, and might with might of he- 
In brazen armour corsleted : the shields with sturdy bosses 

Each upon each leant hard, and rous'd tumultuous disorder. 
Then rose there, all around, of men a groaning and a boasting, 450 

From victors or from vanquished : and reek'd the earth with carnage. 
As when the stormbegotten brooks, down from the mountains streaming, 
Mix in the bottom of a dell the riot of their water, 

Spouted from mighty fountainheads, deep in a dingle's hollow, 
And far along the cliffs their brawl unto the goatherd soundeth : 455 
So, when in conflict these were mix'd, did scream arise and turmoil. 

440. Immeasurably. I accept the strange word amoton as an older form of 
ametron, from a lost verb meto, Latin metor. 



72 THE ILIAD. [book it. 

First, in the van, Antilochus hent a full-armed Troian, 
The offspring of Thalusius, the gallant Echepolus. 

The spear upon his helmet's ridge, with horsetail bushy, lighted, 460 
Eeach'd to the forehead, pierc'd the bone; — and darkness veil'd his eyen: 
In the tough fight sheer down he fell, as when a tower falleth. 
Him, by the foot, Chalcodon's son, the royal Elephenor, 
Chief of the lofty-soul'd Abantes, pull'd from out the weapons, 465 
Eager his armour to despoil : nor long his effort lasted. 

Eor, watching as he dragg'd the corpse, the lofty-soul'd Agenor 
Eeach'd with a brazen-headed pike his side, which was uncover' d, 
Beneath the buckler, as he stoop'd ; — and cast his body helpless. 
So fled his spirit. Over him, 'twixt Troians and Achaians 470 
Rose noisome onset, as of wolves, and man by man was slaughter'd. 

Then did a blooming youth fall slain by Telamonian Ajax. 
His father was Anthemion ; his mother, with her parents 

Erom Ida's slopes descending came to watch the sheep, and bare him475 
Beside the banks of Simois, and Simoensis call'd him. 

Nor paid he to his parents dear his nurture-price, but early 
His life was ravish'd by the spear of mighty-hearted Ajax. 480 

On his right breast the brazen point hit him, and through the shoulder 
Pass'd cruelly ; and in the dust, there fell he, like a poplar, 
Which in a marshy mead grows smooth, but branchy at the summit ; 
A chariot -joiner cuts it down with iron bright, to fashion 485 

Eor some fair car a rounded wheel; prostrate it lies and wither'd 
Beside the river : so fell lie by Jove-descended Ajax. 

Then Priam's offspring, Antiphus, with motley corslet, darted 
At Ajax, mid the throng; — andmiss'd: but hit Ulysses' comrade, 490 

457. Send, to catch (and overpower). 

460. If any reader object to the old plural eyen, (in Thomson, eyne) he may 
substitute for the half line, " and night his eyes enshrouded." 

489. Antiphus was distinguished by his corslet, as Oresbius, 5, 707, by his 
baldric, so as to receive an epithet from it ; but its flexibility would not be 
visible and striking. In 215 above, the girdle of Menelaus was called aiolos, 
and in 135 it was daidaleos : nearly the same thing must have been meant, viz. 
various in hue, and complicated in work. The same word is in 3, 185 ; 5, 295 ; 
7, 222; 12, 167 and 208; 19, 404; 22, 509. 



book iv.] THE ILIAD. 73 

The gallant Leucus, in the groin, while dragging off the carcase. 
He dropt the dead man from his hands, and fell as stone upon him. 
His comrade's slaughter mightily did move Ulysses' choler. 
He thro' the foremost ranks advanc'd, arm'd with the flashing metal; 495 
There at short distance did he stand, and turn'd his gaze on all sides, 
Then darted : back before his rush the Troians shrank ; nor aim'd he 
Vainly, but smote Democoon, the bastard son of Priam, 
Who from Abydus came to him, from pasturing his coursers. 500 
Thro' both his temples pierc'd the brass, and darkness veil'd his eyen: 
So with a loud crash down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 
Their van, and Hector brave, retir'd. With mighty whoop theArgives505 
Drew up the dead, and onward rush'd: but bright Apollo, gazing 
From Pergamus, indignant cried, the Troians to encourage : 

"Ye courser-taming Troians, rise! yield not in glee of battle 
To Argives: for in sooth their flesh is neither stone nor iron, 510 

To bear the gashing brass: nor now the child of brighthair'd Thetis, 
Achilles, fights ; but at his ships doth champ his spleenful rancour." 

So from the citadel the god spake dreadful : but the Achaians, 
Them did the glorious imp of Jove Tritogeneia hearten, 515 

Passing along the ranks, where'er she saw their spirit languid. 

Then destiny Diores trapp'd the son of Amarynkeus : 
His ankle by a rugged stone was maul'd : a chieftain hurl'd it, 

Peirous, son of Imbrasus, arriv'd from Thracian iEnus. 520 

With scrape and smash all merciless the stone did either tendon 
And bone assail : back in the dust he fell, with anguish swooning, 
Yet to his comrades stretch'd his hands. But speedy came the victor,524 
And with the lance his navel pierc'd: then darkness veil'd his eyen. 
But at the Thracian in turn iEtolian Thoas darted, 

And in his chest the weapon fix'd ; then, close to him advancing, 
Pluck'd out the spear, and took his life, by sword stab in the bosom. 530 
Yet might not he the armour strip ; for, round their leader, crowded 
The lofty-tufted Thracians, outstretching lengthy lances, 

Who held at bay the iEtolian, tho' gallant, tall and lordly. 

500. Bastard ; i. e. born of an inferior wife. So 5, 69 &c. See in contrast, 
6, 25. Our language has no specific terms for these distinctions. 
515. Tritogeneia, i. e. Athene, born at the lake Tritonis. 



74 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

The chief receded : and the twain, there in the dust were lying, 535 
As brethren, side by side ; but this, of brazencloak'd Epeians 
Was leader ; that, of Thracians : and many fell around them. 

Had any view'd those deeds at ease, hither and thither wending, 
Unwounded and invisible, — not lightly would he taunt them, 

If maid Athene seiz'd his hand, and thro' the hurly led him, 541 
Warding the darts and thrusts of spear : for on that day full many 
Were in the dust flung side by side, of Troians and Achaians. 



book v. 

M_aiden Athene thereupon on Diomed Tydides 

Courage bestow'd and enterprize, that he, mid all the Argives, 
Might in preeminence be seen, and earn excelling glory. 
About his helmet and his shield un weary fire she kindled, 
In fashion of autumnal star, which, when in Ocean washed, 5 

Blazeth abroad irradiant, beyond the host of heaven : 

Such fire around his head she then and down his shoulders kindled, 
And urg'd him to the midmost ranks, where'er the rout was thickest. 
Among the Troians liv'd a man, spotless of fame and wealthy, — 
Dares, who priest of Vulcan was, and had a double offspring : 10 
Phegeus, — Idseus, — were they call'd ; wellskill'd in diverse battle. 
These came, as counter-champions, apart, against Tydides, 
They from the lofty car to fight, but he on foot assail'd them. 
When they to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 
First Phegeus, poising, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow; 15 
But harmlessly the noyance pass'd over Tydides' shoulder, 
Missing him on the left : then he not vainly flung his weapon, 
But thro' the bosom pierc'd the foe, and dash'd him from the horses. 
Down, from the car so beautiful, Idaeus wildly bounded, 20 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 75 

Nor dar'd to overstride the limbs of his now lifeless brother. 
Nor e'en, I trow, had he himself from gloomy fate escaped, 
But Vulcan saw and rescued him, and shrouded him in darkness, 
Lest that his aged worshipper with double grief be smitten. — 
Then mighty -hearted Tydeus' son seiz'd on the car and horses, 25 
And to the hollow galleys bade his comrades to conduct them. 

But when the Troians lofty-soul'd beheld the sons of Dares, 
One skulking from the foe, and one beside his horses slaughtered, 
The soul of all held grim debate. Meanwhile, grey-ey'd Athene, 
Seiz'd by the hand and thus with words address'd impetuous Ares : 30 

"0 Ares ! Ares, pest to man ! bloodsprinkled ! towerscaling ! 
Were it not well for us to leave the Troians and Achaians 
To prove the will of Jupiter and snatch the battle's glory, 

While we, to shun the Father's wrath, retire us from the conflict ?" 

Thus speaking, from the battlefield she drew impetuous Ares, 35 
And on the high banks seated him which edge Scamander's valley. 
Then sank the heart and might of Troy : the Danai exulted, 
And every leader hent his man. First, royal Agamemnon 
Cast stately Hodius from his car, prince of the Halizones, 
Turning to flight; but he the spear between his shoulders planted 40 
Itight in the back, and thrust it thro' and reach'd into his bosom : 
So, with a loud crash, down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 

Idomeneus next Phaestus slew, son of Mseonian Borus, 
From loamy Tame come: but him, Idomeneus spear- famous 45 

Eeach'd on right shoulder with the pike, when he would mount his horses. 
From the car's edge sheer down he fell, and hateful darkness held him : 
The squires around Idomeneus stript off the dead man's armour. 

But Menelaus, Atreus' son, a pointed spear directed 
At Strophides Scamandrius, a man in hunting skilful, 50 

Practis'd in various archery ; whom Artemis instructed 

Herself to hit all venison, which mountain-forest reareth. 

But not the arrow-pouring queen destruction then averted, 
Nor all the archeries, whereby of yore he was distinguish'd. 
For, as he fled in front of him, Atrides Menelaus 55 

Spear-famous, aiming justly, fix'd the spear between his shoulders 
Eight in the back, and thrust it thro' and reach'd into his bosom. 



76 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

So, headlong dropping, down he came, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 

But Merion slew Phereclus, son of a crafty joiner 
Harmonides; whose hands were skill'd all canny work to fashion 60 
Eight daintily ; for, him the maid Athene lov'd supremely. 
He too for Alexander fram'd the even-balanc'd galleys, 

Source of annoy; which carried home evil to all the Troians 
And to himself; so knew he not the oracles of heaven. 
Him, in the right haunch, Merion, when by pursuit he caught him, 65 
Had wounded; and the brazen point came thro' beyond the bladder: 
So, groaning, on his knees he dropt, and death his soul enshrouded. 

By Meges was Pedaeus slain, Antenor's son, a bastard, 
Whom bright Theano tenderly, as her own children nurtur'd, 70 
Her lord to please: but Phyleus' son spear-famous, near approaching, 
Pierc'd thro' his head from back to front, and tongue from teeth divided. 
Down in the dust he dropt : his teeth champ'd the cold brass convulsive. 

Euaemon's son, Eurypylus, pursued divine Hypsenor, 75 

Son of high-soul'd Dolopion, a man, who to Scamander 

A priest was made, and by the folk, e'en as a god, was honor'd. 
Him, as he fled, Eurypylus, Euaemon's brilliant offspring, 

O'ertook with sabre-cut, and off sever'd the heavy shoulder. 80 

Into the dust the gory limb dropt from the swooning hero ; 

There crimson Death his eyen press 'd, and Destiny resistless. 

So they of either army toil'd amid the hardy struggle. 
ButTydeus' son might puzzle thee, in which array he counted : 85 

Not in the Troian ranks fought he, nor yet among the Achaians. 
Eor o'er the breadth of plain he rag'd, as when a stream is flooded, 
A storm-begotten brook, whose gush hath torn away the bridges ; 
The dams and causeys hold it not, nor walls of fruitful orchards, 90 
When suddenly it rusheth down, if rains from Jove be heavy ; 
And by its fury wasted lie many fair works of peasants : 

So by the swoop of Tydeus' son the bands were maul'd and justled 
Of Troians; nor, though numerous, might venture to await him. 

But when Lycaon's brilliant son perceiv'd the son of Tydeus 95 

Sweeping in rage across the plain, the bands before him routing, 
Quickly he drew his bending bow, at the right shoulder aiming, 
And hit the corslet's cavity. In flew the stinging arrow, 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 77 

Piercing the hero's flesh; and blood was on the corslet sprinkled. 100 

Then didLycaon's brilliant son shout vehemently joyful : 
"Up, courser-spurring Troians ! onward, ye lofty -hearted ! 
The bravest of Achaian chiefs is wounded ; nor, I reckon, 
Will long endure my stubborn shaft, if truly prince Apollo, 
The son of Jove, from Lycia did hither speed my journey." 105 

So spake he boastingly ; but him the pointed shaft subdued not. 
Withdrawn unto the rear, before his chariot and horses 
He stood, and call'd on Sthenelus, the Capaneian hero : 
" Thou gentle son of Capaneus, haste! from the car dismount thee ; 
Thou from my shoulder now must aid to draw a stinging arrow." 110 

He spake, and Sthenelus straightway down from the horses bounded, 
Stood by his side, and pull'd outright the arrow from his shoulder: 
Then thro' the tunic's twisted work the blood in gushes spurted. 
But Diomedes, good at need, lifted his supplication : 

"Offspring of aegis-holding Jove! unweariable ! hear me. 115 

If ever at my father's side with friendly thought thou stoodest 

In foeman's war, to me too now thy favour show, Athene ! 
Grant unto me spear-reach of him, who hath from ambush hit me, 
And glorieth that I not long shall see this sunny splendour. "120 

So utter'd he the word of prayer, and maid Athene heard him. 
His limbs, — both feet and hands above, — nimble she made and buxom, 
Stood by his side, and whispering, did winged accents utter : 

"O Diomedes, cheer thee now with Troians to combat ! 
For in thy bosom, lo ! I breathe thy sire's intrepid spirit, 125 

The ancient heart of buckler- wielding charioteering Tydeus. 
The mist, which heretofore hath veil'd thy eyes, — I now withdraw it, 
That duly thou mayst recognize both deities and mortals. 
Therefore, if any god appear within the throng to tempt thee, 

Against the other gods immortal come not thou to battle 130 

Direct ; but if, in mell of men, Jove's daughter Aphrodite 
Herself adventure, her do thou with savage weapon mangle." 

Thus did grey-ey'd Athene speak and, with the word, departed. 
But Tydeus' son again went forth and with the foremost mingled ; 
And, eager tho' before he was with Troians to combat, 135 

Then threefold rage upon him came, as on a wounded lion, 



78 THE ILIAD. [book v.. 

Who, to devour the woolly flock, over the fence hath bounded 

In the broad field: — the shepherd's dart grazeth and doth not tame him, 

But wakeneth his might : the man no more may dare resistance, 

But plungeth mid the stalls of sheep, and they, abandon'd, tremble ;140 

Huddled together, so stand they, in consternation aidless, 

Till from the deep yard leapeth he, by eager impulse bidden : 

So eagerly with Troians clos'd the stalwart Diomedes. 

Then did he hend Astynoiis and, shepherd of the people, 
Hypeinor; one with brazen point he hit above the bosom, 145 

To one with mighty sword he smote the neck beside the shoulder 
On collarbone ; so the whole limb from back and neck he sever'd. 
Leaving them there, he straight pursued Abas and Polyeidus, 
Children of old Eurydamas, a skilful dream-expounder : 

Yet never to their sire came they, to hear their dreams expounded,150 
But slaughter'd there they lay and stript by stalwart Diomedes. 

Xanthus and Thoon next he chas'd, two sons of wealthy Phaenops, 
Beloved children both ; but he in grievous age was wasting, 
And rear'd no other child beside, his riches to inherit. 
There did the hero lay them low and riev'd the tender spirit 155 
Of both; and to their father left wailing and mournful sorrows : 
Sith, never did he welcome them back from the fight returning 
Alive, but heirs of orphanhood his wide estates divided. 

Echemon next and Chromius, two sons of Dardan Priam, 
Both riding in one chariot were doom'd to his encounter. 160 

As, when a horned cattleherd within a thicket grazeth, 

A lion, pouncing sudden, breaks the neck of cow or bulkin; 
So both of them did Tydeus' son dash from the horses headlong, 
Sorely unwilling ; then at ease he stript their splendid armour, 
But to his comrades gave the steeds, to drive them to the galleys. 165 

But when iEneias saw the chief the ranks of heroes routing, 
He sped him o'er the battlefield, amid the darts and tumult, 
Seeking for godlike Pandarus, if here or there he find him : 
And soon he found the warriour, Lycaon's spotless offspring, 
And there in face of him stood forth, and spake his word before him : 170 

" Whither is gone, Pandarus ! thy bow and winged arrows, 
And glorious report, wherein none here with thee contendeth, 



book v.J THE ILIAD. 79 

Nor any, e'en in Lycia, may claim to be thy better ? 

But raise to Jupiter thy hand, and come ! address an arrow- 
To this strange man, who swayeth wide with noyance to the Troians, 175 
And who of many a gallant soul hath cast the body helpless : 
Unless some god it haply be against the Troians anger'd 

On sake of holy sacrifice : and wrath divine is dreadful." 

To him in words responsive spake Lycaon's brilliant offspring : 
"Anchises' son! high-counsellor of brazen-coated Troians, 180 

All his outside to me is like the skilful son of Tydeus, 

Whom by the shield I recognize and triple-crested vizor, 
And by his steeds : yet be he man or god, I know not surely. 
But, should he be the man I deem, the skilful son of Tydeus, 
Not without aid divine, I trow, so rageth he; but alway 185 

Standeth by him some deathless one, with shoulders wrapt in darkness, 
Who turn'd my pointed shaft aside, which duly reach'd and hit him. 
For I already aim'd at him ; and in his better shoulder 

My arrow lighted, piercing through the hollow of his corslet. 
Troth! thought I, he was headlong flung to be a guest of Pluto, 190 
But, ne'ertheless, I tam'd him not : some god embitter'd is he ! 
Nor now stand ready for my feet a chariot and horses. 
Yet in Lycaon's halls, I weet, are chariots eleven, 

Newmade, fresh-panel'd, beautiful, with curtains clos'd; and coursers, 
Twain for each car, stand duly train'd, rye and white barley munching. 
Truly Lycaon, spearman old, to me gave many charges 197 

Within his palace featly built, when I for Troy would leave him. 
He bade me mount a chariot, and bring with me the horses, 

And play the chief to Troians amid their hardy struggles : 200 
But I his counsel follow'd not, (which verily was better), 
In mercy to my gallant steeds, lest, hemm'd within the city, 
They find but scanty nutriment and miss their wonted plenty. 
So left I him, and came on foot to Ilium, reliant 204 

On archery ; but fate, it seems, meant not my shafts to aid me. 
For I already arrows twain at chieftains twain have aimed, 

Yea, and my shot hath reached them both, Tydides and Atrides, 
And drawn true blood from out their veins, yet only rous'd their courage. 
Therefore with evil destiny my bending bow I plucked 



80 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Down from the peg, upon that day, when I my Troian levies 210 

Led up to lovely Ilium, a joy to godlike Hector. 

But if I haply scape the war, and, back alive returning, 

See with my eyes my sire and wife and lofty-roofed palace, 

May instantly some foreign wight my head from off me sever, 

If with my hands I do not snap this bow and arrows piecemeal, 215 

And cast them in the shining fire : for vainly do I bear them." 

To him in turn spake opposite iEneias, Troian leader : 
"Hold not discourses thus. And yet, no change of things may happen, 
Ere we, against this hero match'd with chariot and horses, 
Confronting him with adverse might, make trial of his weapons. 220 
But come, this car of mine ascend, and see my steeds' careering, 
What virtue hath the breed of Tros, with all the plain acquainted, 
Hither and thither fleet to scour and chase or flee alternate. 
These to the city us will save, if Jupiter o'ermatching 
Haply anew may glory give to Diomed Tydides. 225 

Come, take the scourge and glossy reins, and I will mount to brandish 
The spear: else thou the spear shalt hold, and 1 will tend the horses." 

To him again in turn replied Lycaon's brilliant offspring : 
" iEneias ! hold the reins thyself, and guide thy proper horses. 230 
Liefer will they the rounded car beneath their wonted driver 
Draw, if mayhap we afterward flee from the son of Tydeus. 
Lest, missing thy familiar voice and terrified by tumult, 
They swerve awry impatient, nor bear us from the battle, 

And mighty-hearted Tydeus' son, by fleetness overhending, 235 

Slay both of us and drive away the single-hoofed horses. 
But thou thyself thy proper car and proper horses manage, 
And him, if he invade us, I with pointed spear will welcome." 

Into the car so curious (this converse past) they mounted, 

And straight against Tydides held the horses fleet and eager. 240 

But Sthenelus, the brilliant son of Capaneus, beheld them, 
And to Tydides instantly did winged accents utter : 

" O Diomedes, Tydeus' son, to my regards most pleasing, 
Two stalwart warriours I see, for thy encounter eager. 

235. Overhead, i. e. overtake and catch. See above, on 4, 457. 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 81 

No measure may their sinew tell : one is a skilful archer, 245 

Young Pandarus, who glorieth as offspring of Lycaon : 

But great iEneias arrogates a parentage more splendid ; 

Anchises is his spotless sire ; his mother, Aphrodite. 

But come, withdraw we now and mount the chariot, nor madly 

Bush in the van, and waste a life so precious to thy Argives." 250 

To him with frowning glance replied the stalwart Diomedes : 
" Counsel not fear to me : for I deem not thou canst persuade me. 
Nor truly in my breed is it to fight a skulking battle, 

Or crouch to rearward : hitherto unharm'd my force abideth. 
I loathe upon the car to mount : thus, as I am, I face them, 255 
On foot : Athene, heav'nly maid, forbiddeth me to tremble. 
Not both of them, by our attack unscath'd, shall hence be carried 
By the swift horses off the field, if even one escape us. 
This also will I say ; — and thou within thy mind revolve it : 
If-that the much- designing maid vouchsafe to me the glory 260 

To slay both one and other, — then do thou thy bridles tighten, 
Upon thy chariot-rim, and here arrest thy steeds' careering. 
But, well remembering, rush on against iEneias' coursers, 
And from the Troians drive unto the dapper-greav'd Achaians. 
For know ! they are a progeny of those, which Jove wide-sighted 
Paid unto Tros as ransom-price of auburn Ganymedes : 
Wherefore beneath the Dawn and Sun no coursers these may equal. 
iVom those, Anchises prince of men deriv'd a stolen offspring, 
(Unknown to king Laomedon,) by his own mares conceived. 
Six of this race were foal'd to him within his princely stables : 270 
The four, he kept at home himself, and fondled at the manger ; 
But these he to iEneias gave, twin counsellors of terror. 
If these we capture, verily we earn excelling glory." 

Thus they reciprocally held betwixt themselves discourses : 
But nearer now the twain were come, driving the nimble coursers ; 275 
And first Lycaon's brilliant son address'd him to Tydides : 
" Thou stubborn-hearted skilful man, offspring of lordly Tydeus, 
My pointed shaft subdued thee not, though stinging was the arrow ; 
'Tiswell; but with the spear I now will try, if I can hit thee." 

He spake, and poising, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 

6 



S2 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

And hit the shield of Tydeus* son : and thro' the stubborn leather 
The brazen point flew forcibly, and reach'd into the corslet. 

Then did Lycaon's brilliant son shout vehemently joyful : 
"Eight thro' the body hath my spear transfixed thee ; nor deem I, 
Long wilt thou last : so thou to me a mighty boast hast given." 285 

But, naught dismay'd, to him replied the stalwart Diomedes : 
" It was a miss, and not a hit : but heroes ! ye, I reckon, 
No pause of eagerness will make, till one or other falling 
Glut with his gore the warriour — unweariable Ares." 

Thus, saying, forth he threw the dart; and it, above the nostril 290 
Athene planted, near the eye ; past the white teeth it glided ; 
Thro' the tongue's root it cut, until beneath the chin it issued. 
So dropt he from the chariot, and o'er him clang'd his armour, 

Motley and all-irradiant. The nimblefooted coursers 295 

Swerv'd in alarm : but he by life and force was there abandon'd. 

But quick with shield and lengthy lance iEneias leapt above him, 
In tremor, lest the Acha'ians might drag away the carcase. 

He, like a lion, round it strode, relying in his prowess, 
And forward held his spear, and shield, which equal was on all sides, 300 
Full resolute to slay the man, w r ho onward might adventure : 

And horribly he yell'd. But next did Diomedes brandish 
A rock, a vast creation, which not two men might carry, 

(Men such as now are seen,) but he alone with ease did swing it. 
With this he struck iEneias' hip, just where, as on a pivot, 305 

The thigh within the hip is hing'd; and men the socket call it : 
The rugged stone the socket crush'd, and wrench'd away the tendons, 
Tearing the hero's hide : but he, on his broad hand supported, 
Sank to his knees; and o'er his eyes a swoon of darkness hover' d. 310 

Now would iEneias, prince of men, in such encounter perish, 
But for his gentle mother's care, Jove's daughter Aphrodite, 
Who, to Anchises tending kine, on slopes of Ida bare him. 
Around her bonny child she spread her two white arms, and o'er him 
Folds of her brilliant veil stretch'd out, a screen to bristling battle, 315 

291. The wound seems at first impossible ; but it implies that Pandarus 
had bowed his head suddenly forward to escape the spear, but did not stoop 
sufficiently. 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 83 

Lest from the charioteering foe some fatal weapon pierce him. 

While thus she rescued stealthily her own beloved offspring, 
Well did the son of Capaneus that argument remember, 
Which Diomedes, good at need, had straitly charg'd upon him. 320 
Apart from tumult, in the rear, he held his proper horses, 
Upon the car's rim tightening their bridles ; then, invading 
JSneias' empty chariot, he drave the long-man'd coursers 

From out the Troian ranks, unto the dapper-greav'd Achaians, 
And gave them to Deipylus his comrade (whom he honor'd 325 

Beyond his other friends of youth, for-that their hearts were suited), 
Unto the smoothly-hollow ships to drive them : then the hero 
Mounting upon his proper car drew up the glossy bridles, 
And instantly with ardour press'd the flintyfooted horses 
After Tydides. Gone was he, with ruthless brass pursuing 330 
The queen of Cyprus. Well he knew, she was no armed power, 
Nor counted with those goddesses who manly battle marshal : 
Troth ! nor Athene is she, nor Bellona city-rieving. 
But when he had her overhent, thro' troops of footmen chasing, 
The mighty-hearted Tydeus' son his brazen point extended. 335 

So, leaping from the ground aloft, with a slight scratch he wounded 
Her hand, at bottom of the palm ; nor might her flesh resist it. 
Thro' her ambrosial veil it pass'd, work of the sister-Graces, 
And drew immortal blood; such juice, as floweth from the blessed. 340 
For they no earthly viands eat, nor drink they wine resplendent ; 
And therefore bloodless are they all, and deathless are reputed. 
But She then, shrieking fearfully, dropt from her hands their burden; 
But bright Apollo caught him up, and with blue mist encircled, 345 
Lest from the charioteering foe some fatal weapon pierce him. 

Then Diomedes, good at need, in mighty voice address'd her : 
"From war and bargaining of foes, daughter of Jove ! retire thee. 
Seemeth it little to cajole the unwarlike race of women? 

If thou with battle's grim array wilt deal, in sooth I fancy 350 

Hereafter e'en the talk of war shall make thy body shiver." 

He spake; and she, with sore annoy delirious, departed. 
Her, Iris swift as wind receiv'd, and drew her from the tumult, 
Fretted with throbbing pains; and all her beauteous flesh was darken'd. 



84 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Soon, to the left of toilsome fight, she found impetuous Ares 355 

Sitting ; and on a cloud his spear and nimble horses rested. 
Then, sinking on her knees, did she, from her beloved brother, 
With many a supplication ask his golden-trapped horses. 

" Carry me off, O brother dear ! and grant to me thy horses, 
That to Olympus I may go, abode of the immortals. 360 

Sorely I suffer from a stab, implanted by a mortal, 

Tydides, who with father Jove would presently do battle." 

She spake : and Ares gave to her the golden-trapped horses. 
Into the car she mounted, still distraught with keen resentment. 
And Iris mounted by her side, and gathered the bridles, 365 

And flogg'd the coursers, nothing loth in flying race to gallop. 
Quickly unto the gods' abode, Olympus steep, arriv'd they ; 
Where Iris, swift with feet of wind, the steeds' career arrested, 
And loos'd them from the yoke, and cast ambrosial fodder near them. 
But heavenly Aphrodite fell into Dione's bosom, — 370 

Her mother : she within her arms embrac'd her proper daughter, 
And soothing her with hand and voice, she spake, her name, pronouncing: 

"Beloved child! what heav'nly hand such ill hath wrought upon thee, 
All wantonly, as tho' thou wert in flagrant guilt arrested?" 

But Aphrodite, queen of Smiles, to her thereat responded : 375 

"The son of Tydeus me hath stabb'd, highminded Diomedes, 
Because-that I would stealthily my own beloved rescue, 
My child iEneias, who to me far dearest is of all men. 

The deadly warcry now. is not of Troians and Achaians ; 
But even with immortals now the Danai do battle." 380 

Forthwith, divine of goddesses, Dione, spake responsive : 
"Bear up, my daughter! and endure, however sharp thy sorrow. 
For, many a woe from mortals we, who hold Olympian dwellings, 
Have suffer'd, — either race on each fierce miseries imposing. 
Once Ares learnt to suffer, when the children of Aloeus, 385 

Otus and sturdy Ephialtes, hardily enchain' d him ; 

So he for thirteen moons was kept, in brass and brick encased. 
And there would Ares perish now, insatiate of battle, 
But that their father's dainty bride, Eeriboia, learnt it, 
And notice gave to Hermeas ; who slily rescued Ares, 390 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 85 

Outworn already : for the chain did cruelly subdue him. 

And Juno tasted suffering, when with a threebarb'd arrow 

She by the stalwart offspring of Amphitryon was wounded 

In the right bosom: whence she knew immedicable anguish. 

Nor less, stupendous Aides by a swift arrow suffer'd, 395 

What time the selfsame man, the son of Jove the segisholder, 

Before the portal of the dead with impious weapon stung him. 

But he to Jupiter's abode and long Olympus mounted, 

Fretted in heart and pierc'd all thro' with torture : for the arrow 

Was in his sturdy shoulder fix'd, and rous'd his moody passion. 400 

But soon did Pseon, Heaven's leech, spread pain-destroying unguents 

And heal his wound; for not, in sooth, of mortal fabric was he. — 

Worker of guilt and hard of soul, of impious dealing reckless, 

Is he, who grieveth by his darts the gods who hold Olympus. 

And now this son of Tydeus, whom Athene, greyey'd goddess, 405 

Hath urg'd against thee, knoweth not, simpleton! to ponder, 

That he not long endureth, who against immortals nghteth : 

Nor, when he cometh from the war and grim embrace of foemen, 

Shall children, climbing on his knees, blandly salute him Father. 

Wherefore let Tydeus' son, tho' now so stalwart is his valour, 410 

Beware, lest one more valorous than thee, his might encounter. 

Lest haply sage Aigiale, the noble-hearted consort 

Of courser-taming Diomed, and daughter of Adrastus, 

Awake from sleep, and, shrieking loud, arouse her dear domestics, 

Missing her lord of early love, the bravest of the Achaians." 415 
She spake, and from the wounded wrist wip'd off the pure effusion 

With both her hands : the wrist was heal'd, and grievous pains were ended. 
But Juno and Athene watch'd these deeds afar ; and shortly 

By words of cutting banter tried Saturnius to challenge. 

To them Athene, greyey'd goddess, first began discourses : 420 

" O father Jove, if aught I speak, might it excite thy anger ? 

The queen of Cyprus (as I trow) some Argive woman urging 

To company with Troians, whom now she fondly favours, 

While stroking with her slender hand a longrob'd Argive woman, 

393. Heracles, ostensibly son of Amphitryon, is also son of Jupiter, as in 

v. 396. 



86 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Hath scratched her wrist so delicate against a golden buckle." 425 

She spake. The Sire of gods and men smil'd at Athene's sally ; 
But then to golden Aphrodite call'd, and thus address'd her : 

"Not unto thee, my child, we give the ministry of battle : 
But thou shall rightfully pursue the lovely cares of marriage, 
And warlike deeds devolve upon keen Ares and Athene." 430 

Thus they reciprocal exchang'd among themselves discourses. 
But Diomedes, good at need, against iEneias sallied, 

Knowing it was Apollo's self that held his hand above him. 

Nor, even so, the mighty god revered he ; but alway 
Burned to slay Anchises' son, and strip his signal harness. 435 
Thrice did he rush against the foe, in eagerness of battle, 
And thrice Apollo forcibly dash'd back his shining buckler. 

But when a fourth time he would rush, like to a mighty Spirit, 
Then did Apollo Ear-averter speak with direful menace : 

" Tydeus' son, beware! retire! aspire not in thy fancies 440 

A peer unto the gods to be : for diverse is the nature 

Of men that move upon the ground, and of the gods immqrtal." 

Thus spake the god: and Tydeus' son a scanty space retir'd him, 
And yielded ; shunning to enrage Apollo the fardarting. 
But, from the crowd apart, the god bare off and plac'd iEneias 445 
Amid the sacred Pergamus ; wherein to prince Apollo 

A fane was builded : there within an ample crypt, Latona 
And arrowpouring Artemis rais'd him to health and splendour. 

[But silverbow'd Apollo next an empty form devised, 

Unto iEneias similar and like in all his armour : 450 

And round this form the Troians and the divine Achaians, 
Each of the others, ravaged around their hardy bosoms 

The oxhide shields orbicular, and shaggy-winged targets.] 

Then thus did bright Apollo speak unto impetuous Ares : 

" O Ares ! Ares ! pest to man ! bloodsprinkled ! tower-scaling ! 455 
Wilt thou not chase across the field and drag away this hero, 
Tydides, who with father Jove would presently do battle ? 
The queen of Cyprus, on the wrist, first with his weapon stabb'd he, 

449-453. These lines are so inconsistent with 467, 514, as to seem like an 
interpolation. 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 87 

And then upon myself he rush'd, like to a mighty Spirit." 

This said, on topmost Pergamus he took his tranquil station. 460 
But, mid them moving, ghastly Ares stirr'd the ranks of Troians, 
In form like unto Acamas, keen leader of the Thrakes. 

To Priam's sons, Jove-nurtured, chiefly he turn'd his parley : 

" Sons of a sire Jove-nurtured ! children of royal Priam ! 
How long abandon ye the folk for slaughter to the Achaians ? 465 
Till haply round the wellmade gates the battle rage, await ye ? 
A hero prostrate lieth, whom, as peer of godlike Hector, 
We honoured, — iEneias, son of lofty soul'd Anchises. 

But come ye! let us from the brawl our noble comrade rescue." 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 470 
Sarpedon next a sharp rebuke address'd to godlike Hector : 
" Whither is gone the spirit, which, O Hector ! once possess'd thee ? 
Thy boast it was that thou alone, without allies and peoples, 
By brethren and by marriage-kin, wouldest maintain the city : 
But none of these I here, or there, distinguish or discover ; 475 

But stealthily they crouch behind, as dogs around a lion, 
And all the fight on us doth fall, who for allies are counted. 
For I myself am thy ally, and I from far have journey'd : 

For far from hence is Lycia, upon the whirling Xanthus, 

Where I my dearest consort left, and eke my tender infant, 480 

Yea, and my plentiful estate, which every poor man envies. 

Yet, even so, my Lycians I hearten, and am eager 

Myself to fight with warriours, though nothing here possess I, 
Which men of Argos ravaging could drive away or carry. 
But thou dost indolently wait, nor on the other people 485 

Urgest, immovably to stand, and for their wives do battle. 

Beware, lest thou, and Priam's self, entangled in the meshes, 
To men of adverse spirit be a sport and lucky booty : 

Then will they pillage greedily your thickly-peopled city. 
Thee it behoveth, night and day, on these affairs to ponder, 490 
And to the princes of the allies far-summon'd, make entreaty 
For constancy; and from yourselves ward off our keen reproaches." 

So spake Sarpedon; and his word deep stung the heart of Hector, 
Who from his chariot straightway leapt to the ground in armour. 



88 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Two pointed jav'lins brandishing, thro' all the army went he, 495 
Enheartening his men, and rous'd the deadly cry of battle. 
Then did they gather to a ball, and stood against the Achaians : 
But eke the Achaians clos'd their ranks, and kept their ground intrepid. 

As on the sacred threshing-floors chaff by the wind is carried, 
Where peasant men are winnowing beneath the active breezes, 500 
When auburn Ceres by her sieve the crop and chaff doth sunder ; 
And all the ground of winnowing is whiten'd ; — so the Achaians 
Were then above with tides of dust all white, which feet of horses 
Stamp'd unto heaven's brassy vault, betwixt the men's careering 
Onward and back: for round and round the charioteers did turn them. 
But straight ahead, and hand to hand, the battle rush'd ; and round it 
Impetuous Ares darkness wrapt, in favour to the Troians, 
The ranks in all parts visiting : thus of the Golden-belted 
Accomplish'd he the injunctions : for bright Apollo charg'd him 
To rouse the Troian heart, sithence he saw the maid Athene 510 

Departed : for the Danai found none like Her to aid them. 

But from the temple's wealthy crypt himself brought out JEneias, 
And breathed intrepid vehemence into the people's shepherd. 

iEneias mid his comrades stood anew ; and joyful were they, 
When they beheld him thus, alive and safe and sound advancing, 515 
And full of noble vigour : yet no question did they ask him ; 
For other toil forbade, — arous'd by silverbow'd Apollo, 
By Ares, pest of man, and strife immeasurably eager. 

There also, by Ajaces twain, Ulysses and Tydides, 
The Danai to war were urg'd; but they, by proper courage, 520 
Xor at the force of Troians nor at the turmoil trembled. 

But firm abode they, like to clouds, which, on the peaked summits 
Of mountains, Saturn's child hath plac'd, amid the hush of breezes 
Immovable, while as the might of Boreas may slumber, 
And other winds tempestuous, whose shrill and squally blaring 525 
Scareth apart the shady clouds in eddying disorder : 
So, mid the war, the Danai were motionless and tranquil. 

But thro' the crowd Atrides mov'd, with many an exhortation : 

" friends, be men! and gallantly a cheerful courage keep ye, 
And each to other bashful be amid your hardy struggles : 530 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 89 

Of bashful-hearted men, the most are safe, and few are slaughtered; 
But runaways no glory win, nor runneth safety with them." 

He spake and keenly hurl'd his spear, and hit a chieftain hero, 
Deicoon, who comrade was of mighty-soul' d iEneias, 

And son of Pergasus : but him, as peer to Priam's children 535 
The Troians held ; for keen was he to fight among the foremost. 
Upon his shield came down the spear of royal Agamemnon ; 
Nor might the hide resist it ; but thro' all the folds it hurried, 
And underneath the girdle's breadth deep in the vitals pierc'd him. 
So with a loud crash down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 540 

Then of the Danai in turn Orsilochus and Crethon, 

Chief heroes, by iEneias fell ; two children of Diodes ; 

Whose father held a wide domain in Phere nobly-builded, 
Wealthy of substance; and his birth he boasted from the river 
Alpheius, who with waters broad the land of Pylos parteth. 545 

Who erst Orsilochus begat, a prince to many people : 

Orsilochus begat in turn the lofty-soul'd Diodes : 

But for Diodes' heritage twin children were begotten, 

Orsilochus and Crethon, skili'd in every form of battle. 
When these at man's estate arriv'd, they on the dusky galleys 550 

To charioteering Ilium accompanied the Argives, 

To earn renown for Atreus' sons : and there did Death enshroud them. 
But they, like to two lion-cubs, which, deep within the covert 
Of forests o'er a mountain-ridge, under their dam grow mighty ; 555 
And thro' the stables ruin spread, plump sheep and oxen stealing, 
Till,bythe hands of men, themselves with the sharp brass are slaughter'd: 
Such did these princes fall, subdued beneath iEneias' puissance. 
Lofty they fell, and prostrate lay, in guise of lofty larches. 560 

But Menelaus, good at need, pitied the fallen heroes, 

And thro' the foremost ranks advanc'd, arm'd with the flashing metal, 
And brandishing his spear. In sooth, 'twas Ares stirr'd his spirit, 
With this intent, that he, beneath iEneias' hands, might perish. 

But him Antilochus, the son of loftyminded Nestor, 565 

Beheld, and thro' the van advanc'd: sith for the people's shepherd 
Vastly he fear'd, lest aught befall, and mar their mighty labours. 
The twain already adverse held their hands and pointed weapons, 



90 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Meeting for foeinan's argument, with eagerness of battle : 

But quickly stood Antilochus beside the people's shepherd. 570 

Then, tho' an ardent warriour, iEneias shrank before them, 

When side by side two braves he saw awaiting his encounter. 

So did the twain draw up the dead amid the Achaian army, 

And plac'd the miserable pair in hands of their companions ; 

Then turning back themselves, engag'd in battle of the foremost. 575 

Forthwith, Pylsemenes was slain, an equipoise to Ares, 
Prince of the Paphlagonians, shieldbearers, mightyhearted ; 

On whom the dart of Atreus' son, spearfamous Menelaiis, 
Lighting, beside his collar-bone, there, as he stood, subdued him. 
Meanwhile Antilochus laid low Mydon, Atymnus' offspring, — 580 
A charioteer and gallant squire, — just as he wheel' d his horses, 
With massy stone his elbowhitting; then, in dust of battle, 
The bridles white with ivory dropt from his helpless fingers. 

Thereat the victor, rushing on, smote with the sword his temple. 
Out of the wellwrought car he fell, headlong with plunge convulsive,585 
And lighting wherethe sand was deep, stood long on crown and shoulders, 
Till the two horses, moving on, into the dust o'erthrew him : 
Them, with a thong, Antilochus drave to the Achaian army. 

When Hector mid the ranks descried the twain, he rush'd against them 
With piercing cry; and after him the bands of Troians follow'd, 
Stubborn; for now, to lead them, march'd Ares and queen Bellona: 
With 17<?r was brawl of ruthless fray, with Him was might of weapons. 
Stalking he mov'd alternately before and after Hector. 595 

But Diomedes, good at need, at sight of Ares, shudder'd. 
As when some clownish simpleton, a mighty plain traversing, 
Lighteth upon a river's brink that swift to Ocean rusheth, 

Bemazed at its gurgling foam, he starteth sudden backward : 
So then did Tydeus' son recoil, and spake unto the people : 600 

"Not without cause, O friends, do we at godlike Hector marvel, 
What sort of spearman he is prov'd, and warriour intrepid. 
But alway standeth near to him some god, who wardeth ruin ; 
And now yon Ares at his side, in mortal figure stalketh. 
But with your faces onward turn'd, to front the Troians alway, 605 
Eetire ye, nor against the gods be covetous of battle." 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 91 

He spake: meanwhile the Troians approach'd for nearer contest. 
There Hector slew two warriours, to hero-glee well-trained, 
Menesthes and Anchialus : a single car contained them. 

Great Telamonian Ajax saw, and sorrow'd at their slaughter. 610 

At distance short he took his stand, and hurl'd his shining weapon. 
And struck the son of Selagus, Ampheius, who in Psesus 
Dwelt, rich in cattle, rich in corn; but Destiny constraint him 
For service of ally to march to Priam and his children. 

Him Telamonian Ajax struck beneath his breadth of girdle, 615 

And fix'd within his tender lap the spear with lengthy shadow. 
So with a loud crash down he dropt: and up ran gallant Ajax 
To strip his armour; but their darts the Troians thickly shower'd, 
Pointed and all-irradiant ; which in his buckler bristled. 

But he with heel advancing trod, and pluck'd his brazen weapon 620 
Out of the corpse; yet might not he tear off the beauteous armour 
From shoulders of the dead; for sore the javelins distress'd him : 
And of the haughty Troians he the stalwart concourse dreaded, 
Who scar'd and drave him to retreat, tho' gallant, tall, and lordly. 625 
So they of either army toil'd amid the hardy struggle. 

Then overmatchingFate drave on against divine Sarpedon 
Tlepolemus, Heracles' son, a man both tall and goodly. 

When they to shorter distance came, the son against the grandson 630 
Of cloud -collecting Jupiter, advancing each on other; 

Tlepolemus converse began, and haughtily address'd him : . 

" Sarpedon ! to the Lycians high Counsellor ! in battle 
Wholly unskill'd! who forceth thee to come and skulk in Troas? 
False is their tale, who trace thy birth to Jove the segis-holder ; 635 

For twixt those warriours and thee no parity perceive I, 
Who were, in days of former men, by Jupiter begotten : 
Such as of yore the ancient folk my proper sire remember, 
The mightiness of Heracles, audacious, lion-hearted. 

Who, — when, with galleys only six, and shorter train of peoples, 640 
The coursers of Laomedon unto these shores had drawn him, — 

Widow'd the streets of Ilium and sack'd her countless riches : 

But cowardly thy temper is, and wasted are thy peoples ; 

Nor now, arriv'd from Lycia, a rampart to the Troians 



92 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Deem I that thou at all wilt be, whatever be thy prowess, 645 

But thro' the gates of Aides, subdued by me, shalt travel." 

Hereon the chief from Lycia, Sarpedon, spake responsive : 
" By him the sacred Ilium, Tlepolemus ! was captur'd, 

Because her stately prince became infatuate and wrongful : 
Who benefits from him had reap'd, but answer'd with reproaches. 650 
Nor paid the coursers as his meed, for which from far he journeyed. 
But upon thee, I promise, here shall gloomy fate and carnage 
From me alight; and thou, subdued beneath my spear, shalt furnish 
To me a glory, and a life to charioteering Pluto." 

Sarpedon spake : Tlepolemus from other side uplifted 655 

The ashen shaft : of both the chiefs at once the lengthy lances 
Sped from their hands: Sarpedon's point upon the neck alighted 
Eight in the middle: thro' and thro', the anguish-bearing weapon 
Issued behind: straightway his eyes were veil'd in gloomy darkness. 
Meanwhile, his foeman's worser thigh Tlepolemus had pierced 660 

With his long spear : with fury fill'd, the brazen point flew onward, 
Deep cutting to the bone ; but still, death by his Sire was warded. 

Around Sarpedon, match for gods, his comrades strove, to bear him 
Out of the battlefield : but him the lengthy weapon trailing 
Sorely distress'd; but none took thought, nor minded, in their hurry, 6 65 
The ashen shaft from out his thigh to pull, and aid his climbing 
Into the car aloft : for care too much their minds distracted. 

Meanwhile the Achaians dapper-greav'd out of the battle carried 
Tlepolemus, and drew regards from the divine Ulysses ; 
Hardy resolve possess'd his heart; his inmost bosom panted. 670 

He thereupon with mind and soul held conferences, whether 
The son of deeply-rumbling Jove to chase with keener battle, 
Or from the troop of Lycians to doom more lives to slaughter. 

Nor troth ! did destiny assign to lofty-soul'd Ulysses 
By the sharp brass to send below a Jove-begotten hero : 675 

Wherefore against the Lycians Athene turn'd his anger. 
Then Cceranus was slain by him and Chromis and Alastor, 
And Prytanis and Halius, Noemon and Alcander. 

And by divine Ulysses' hand yet more of them had fallen, 

But that it quickly drew the eye of motley-helmed Hector. 680 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 93 

He thro' the foremost ranks advanc'd, arm'd with the flashing metal, 
Terror into the Danai inspiring ; but Sarpedon, 

Jove's son, at his approach rejoic'd, and piteously eall'd him : 

"0 son of Priam, leave me not unto the foes a booty 
Here prostrate, but avenge my fall: and then, let life desert me 685 
Within your sacred Ilium ; sith destiny forbids me, 

Returning to my proper home, and my dear native country, 
Delight to my dear wife to give and to my infant offspring." 

He spake: but no reply came back from motley-helmed Hector: 
Past him he rush'd, all eagerness to rout and slay the Argives. 690 
But round Sarpedon, match for gods, his comrades strove, and plae'd him 
Beneath a fair and mighty beech of Jove the aegis-holder. 
Thereat, the valiant Pelagon, who was his dear companion, 

Drew from the wound the ashen shaft, which in his thigh was planted.695 
His life was gone in swoon, and mist lay heavy on his eyelids: 
But soon his breath came back again; and softly-playing breezes, 
From Boreas, preserv'd alive his sadly-gasping spirit. 

The Argives, press'd by Ares and by brazen-helmed Hector, 
Neither their faces ever turn'd toward the dusky galleys 700 

Nor yet straight-wise encounter'd them in fight ; but alway backward 
Beceded, when the rumour spread, " Ares the Troians aideth." 

Then who was first, and who was last, a sport of death and plunder 
To Hector, son of Priamus, and brazen-coated Ares ? 

First, godlike Teuthras ; after him, Orestes courser-smiting; 705 

And after him, (Enomaiis, Trechus, iEtolian spearman, 

Helenus, son of (Enops, and Oresbius of Hyla, 

Mark'd by his baldric's motley hues ; a man to wealth devoted, 
Who close to lake Kephisis held his dwelling; and around him 
Dwelt his compeer Boeotians in their fat soil of plenty. 710 

But when, from heaven looking down, the whitearm'd goddess Juno 
Saw them, her Argives ravaging amid the hardy struggle, 
She to Athene instantly did winged accents utter : 

"Ah me ! unweariable child of Jove the gegis-holder ! 
Then verily in vain we pledg'd our word to Menelaiis, 715 

To storm well-fenced Ilium and bear away the booty, 

If ghastly Ares we permit to riot thus in madness. 



94 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

But come, let us too bend a thought to furious encounter." 

She spake; nor uncompliant found Athene, grey-ey'd goddess. 
Then Juno, venerable queen, daughter of mighty Saturn, 720 

Mov'd busily, and furbish'd out the golden-trapped horses. 
And Hebe quickly to the car put on the wheeled circles ; — 

All were of brass, each had eight spokes; — around the iron axle. 
Their felly incorruptible was golden ; but above it, 

The fitted tires were all of brass, a spectacle for marvel. 725 

The boxes which on either side ran round, were both of silver. 
On golden and on silver straps the seat was swung : around it 
Two rims half-circular were stretch'd: its pole was form'd of silver. 
Upon its end she bound the yoke, golden and fair; and thro' it 730 
Pass'd the fair golden traces ; then beneath the yoke did Juno 
The nimblefooted steeds conduct, for strife and onset eager. 

Meanwhile Athene, maiden-imp of Jove the segis-holder, 
Shower'd her robe of brilliancy down on her father's pavement, 
Whose tissue she herself had wrought and with her hands embroider'd; 
Then, in a martial tunic clad, address'd her in the armour 

Of cloud-collecting Jupiter, to meet the tearful battle. 

So on her shoulders' breadth she slung the. aegis with its fringes, 
Dreadful; which, on the rim around, hath Terror for a garland, 
And in it Strife, and in it Might, in it benumbing Turmoil, 740 

In it the frightful sever' d head of the gigantic Gorgon, 
Frightful and grisly : prodigy of Jove the segis-holder. 

And on her head a four- plum' d casque with double ridge she settled, 
All golden ; measur'd to contain a hundred cities' footmen. 
Into the naming chariot then with her feet she mounted, 745 

And grasp'd her spear, — vast, weighty, stout; wherewith the ranks she 
Of heroes, whom for wrath she dooms, child of a direful Father, [wasteth 
But Juno keenly with the scourge the coursers touch'd. Before them 5 
The gates of Heaven boom'd aloud, self-moving ; so commanded 
The Hours, who hold beneath their trust great Heaven and Orympus,750 
Alike to raise or overspread the closely-shutting darkness. 

Betwixt these gates they guided clear the spur-excited horses, 
And found, apart from other gods, the child of Saturn seated 
Upon the topmost pinnacle of many-ridg'd Olympus. 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 95 

There Juno whitearm'd goddess stay'd the ardour of her horses, 755 
And to supreme Saturnian Jove address'd salute and question : 

"Dost thou, father Jove, approve these hardy deeds of Ares, 
How many and how noble men he from the Achaian army 
Hath slain at random, ruthlessly ? to me a grief ! but Cypris, 
Tranquil and sly, is overjoy 'd, with silverbow'd Apollo : 760 

These have set on this frantic one, of right and custom reckless. 
O father, wouldest thou with me be angry, should I haply 
Chase Ares from the battle-field, with moanful anguish stricken?" 

Then cloud- collecting Jupiter, addressing her, responded : 
"Goto; against him rather rouse Athene booty-driving, 765 

Who beyond others aye is wont in bitter pains to catch him." 

He spake; nor uncompliant found the whitearm'd goddess Juno. 
She flogg'd the coursers, nothing loth in flying race to speed them 
In the mid regions, over Earth, and under starry Heaven. 
Ear as across to outmost haze the peasant's eye traverseth, 770 
Who, seated on a pinnacle, gazeth o'er seas of purple, 

So far the gods' high-neighing steeds at every bound were carried. 
But when in Troas they arriv'd and at the streaming rivers, 
Where Simois his waters blends with waters of Scamander, 
There Juno, whitearm'd goddess, scay'd the ardour of her horses, 775 
And loos'd them from the car, and spread around them mist abundant : 
And for their pasture, Simois shot up immortal herbage. 

But they, the goddesses, with track like unto trembler pigeons, 
Darted across in eager speed to aid the men of Argos. 

But when they were arriv'd, where men most numerous and noble, 780 
Standing around the mightiness of Argive Diomedes, 
Were closely held at bay, in guise of raw-devouring lions, 
Or like to sturdy forest-boars, no easy prey to spoilers ; 

There Juno, whitearm'd goddess,paus'd; and stood, and loudly shouted, 
Assimilate to Stentor's form; who,brazen-voic'd,high-hearted,785 

Shouted in tones that pierc'd as far as other fifty heroes : 

"Argives,in beauty marvellous! shame! base reproaches ! 
While-as the godlike Achileus went to and fro in battle, 

Never beyond the Dardan gates did then the steps of Troians 
Adventure; ay! for verily his weighty spear they dreaded. 7 90 



96 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

But now, far from their walls they fight, hard by the hollow galleys." 

She, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited; 
But straight to Diomedes sped Athene, greyey'd goddess, 
And in the midst she found the prince beside his car and horses, 
Cooling the wound, which Pandar us with arrow-shot implanted. 795 
The breadth of strap, whereon was hung his rounded shield, annoy'd him, 
Where heat and sweat and gore were mix'd; and all his arm was weary: 
But he the clouded blood beneath would wipe, the strap upraising. " 
Then holding by the horses' yoke, the goddess thus address'd him. 

" How little like to Tydeus' self I see the child of Tydeus ! 800 
Tydeus was short of stature ; yet, a doughty fighter was he ; 
Even when I his ardour check'd, nor suffer'd him in battle 
Or sport of martial sallies ; when he came without Achaians, 
Single ambassador to Thebes, to meet Cadmeians many. 

Him I commanded in the halls to take the banquet tranquil ; 805 
But he, with that stout heart of his, such as of old he carried, 
Challeng'd the youths of Cadmus' fort, and won in every contest, 
Bight easily : such force to him my present aid imparted. 
Also with thee, behold ! I stand close to thy side, and guard thee ; 
And thee I zealously exhort to battle with the Troians. 810 

Either, much-sallying, thy limbs by weariness are conquer' d, 
Or heartless fear possesseth thee ; then never could I hold thee 
The oifspring true of Oeneus' son the skilful-hearted Tydeus." 

To her thereon responsive spake the stalwart Diomedes : 
"Well do I know thee, maiden-imp of Jove the segis-holder : 815 

To thee then promptly will I speak my word, nor will conceal it. 
Not heartless fear possesseth me, nor any base reluctance : 
But what thyself did charge on me, that charge I still remember ; — 
Against the other gods immortal, not to join in battle 
Direct; but if, in mell of men, Jove's daughter Aphrodite 820 

Herself adventur'd, her should I with savage weapon mangle. — 
Therefore do I myself retire, and eke to other Argives 

Much exhortation have I made, their forces here to rally : 
Eor Ares' self I recognize wide-marshalling the battle." 

To him responded thereupon Athene greyey'd goddess : 825 

" O Diomedes, Tydeus' son, to my regards most pleasing, 



book v.] THE ILIAD. 97 

Neither do thou that Ares fear, nor other of the immortals, 

In fight direct : such force to thee my present aid imparteth. 

But come, and guide on Ares first the single-hoofed horses, 

And strike him hand to hand, nor feel respect for this mad creature, 830 

Impetuous Ares. Troth ! is he a made-up trimming rascal : 

Who in discourse, short space ago, to me and Juno promis'd 

To fight against the Troians and to support the Argives ; 

But now with Troians joineth he, and hath his pledge forgotten." 

She spake, and grasping Sthenelus, withdrew him from the horses 835 
Down to the ground ; but Diomed, quick as the word, ascended. 
Into the selfsame car, beside the godlike Diomedes, 

Eager she mounted : with the load, deep groan'd the beechen axle ; 
^For dreadful was the god it bare, and mightiest the hero. 
Then maid Athene, instantly the scourge and bridles seizing, 840 

Guided on Ares' self direct the single-hoofed horses. 

Just had he slain a man,— of all iEtolians the bravest, — 
Bright offspring of Ochesius, gigantic Periphantes ; 

Him gore-polluted Ares slew for booty ; but Athene 

Put on the casque of Aides, lest direful Ares see her. 845 

When Ares, pest of mortals, saw the godlike Diomedes, 
He turn'd himself away, and left gigantic Periphantes 
In the same spot, whereon he fell, to lie ; and, fill'd with fury, 
On courser-taming Diomed a new attack directed. 

When they to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 850 

First Ares stretch'd beyond the yoke, and o'er the horses' bridles, 
With brazen spear, in eagerness to win the meed of battle : 
But from the chariot, Athene, greyey'd goddess, caught it 
Within her hand, and thrust it off to spend its fury vainly. 
But Diomedes, good at need, did next to fight apply him 855 

With brazen spear; and maid Athene mightily impress'd it, 
To strike the foe in lowest lap, where he his baldric girded : 
There did it hit; and thro' and thro' his comely flesh it mangled. 
But back she drew the spear again. Then brazen-coated Ares 
Groan'd loud as thousands nine or ten of men who shout in battle, 860 
Closing in struggle. Trembling seiz'd both Troians and Achaians, 
From fear: so loud did Ares groan, insatiate of combat. 

7 



98 THE ILIAD. [book v. 

Such as a mist of Tartarus from out the clouds ariseth, 

When by an evil-breathing wind almighty heat is gender'd ; 865 

Such and so huge to Tydeus' son did brazen-coated Ares 

Appear, ascending on the clouds into the vasty heaven. 

Swiftly unto the gods' abode, Olympus steep, arriv'd he, 

And there beside Saturnius sat pining in resentment, 

And pointed to the heav'nly blood, which from the gash was streaming, 

And thus in melancholy tones did winged accents utter : 

"Dost thou, father Jove, approve, to see these hardy doings? 
Alway we deities endure things piteous and cruel, 

Which, to the joy of mortal men, each upon other plotteth. 
But thee we all attack; for thou a cursed maid hast gotten, 875 
Insensate, who for ever is to impious deeds devoted. 

For all the other deities, who dwell upon Olympus, 

Yield unto thee obedience, and each of us is subject : 

But upon her, by word or act, no fetter thou imposest, 
But givest rein ; sith from thyself this baleful child was gender'd. 880 
Who now hath Tydeus' son impell'd, — outrageous Diomedes, — 
Against the immortal deities with frenzied heart to riot. 

The queen of Cyprus, on the wrist, first with his weapon stabb'd he ; 
And then upon myself he rush'd, like to a mighty Spirit. 
But me my speedy feet bare off; else, direly might I suffer 885 

There on the spot, for length of time, among grim heaps of corpses; 
Or, tho' alive, be powerless, from stubborn blows of weapons." 

But cloud-collecting Jupiter with frowning glance responded : 
"Thou trimming fellow! sit not here beside me thus to whimper. 
Of gods, who hold Olympus, none, as thou, to me is hateful ; 890 

For alway feud to thee is dear, and violence and combat. 
In thee thy mother's spirit lives, — unbearable, unyielding, — 
Thy mother Juno, whom by words I alway hardly manage. 
And by her promptings, troth ! I count this hath upon thee fallen. 
But still, much longer cannot I endure thee bearing anguish ; 895 
For-that of me a birth thou art, — to me thy mother bare thee. 
But if, from other of the gods, thus baleful, thou wert gotten, 
Long since had I degraded thee below the ranks of heaven." 

He spake, and unto Heaven's leech commandment gave to heal him. 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 99 

Thereat did Paeon, Heaven's leech, spread pain-destroying unguents, 

To heal his wound; for not, in sooth, of mortal fabric was he. 

As the white milk by curdling juice into commotion riseth; 

At first 'tis liquid : speedily it thickens, as one mixes ; 

So swiftly did the heav'nly skill then heal impetuous Ares. 

Him Hebe tended at the bath, andcloth'd in pleasant garments :905 

So he beside Saturnius sat glorying in grandeur. 

When thus the goddesses had stopt Ares, the pest of mortals, 
From hero- slaughter, to the house of mighty Jove return' d they, 
Athene, war -repelling maid, and Juno queen of Argos. 



BOOK VI. 



Oo the grim battlecry was left to Troians and Achaians. 
This way and that, across the plain, diversely rush'd the struggle, 
While either host against the foe its brazen spears directed, 
Midway betwixt the Simois and currents of Scamander. 

First Ajax, son of Telamon, a bulwark of the Achaians, 5 

Breaking the line of Troians, gave comfort to his comrades. 

For he a hero struck, who mid the Thracians was noblest, 
Goodly and mighty ; Acamas, the son of Eiisorus. 
The spear upon his helmet's ridge with horsetail bushy lighted ; 
Keach'd to the forehead, pierc'd the bone; — and darkness veil'd his even. 

By Diomedes, good at need, the son of Teuthras perish'd, 
Axylus, who his dwelling held in nobly-built Arisba, 
A man of substance plentiful, and dear was he to all men ; 
For-that he dwelt beside the road, and all, who came, befriended. 15 
Yet none of those who lov'd him well then stood in front, and warded 
The ruesome fate ; but two at once fell by the son of Tydeus, 



100 THE ILIAD. [book vi. 

Axylus, with Calesius, his minister and driver. 

Then did Euryalus despoil Opheltius and Dresus. 20 

Aisepus next and Pedasus he chas'd ; whom erst a Naid, 

The nymph Abarbareia, bare to spotless Bucoleion, 

Who boasted in a lordly sire Laomedon ; and truly, 

His eldest child he was, but base ; by stealth his mother bare him. 
Tending his sheep he met the nymph, and won her for his bridal, 25 
And she from his embrace bestow 'd twiu children on their father. 
And now Mekisteus' son unstrung their gallant limbs, and ravish'd 
Their living spirit, and despoil'd the armour from their shoulders. 
War-biding Polypoetes slew Astyalus : Ulysses 

With brazen weapon pierc'd to death Percosian Pidytes ; 
Teucer did Aretaon slay ; Antilochus, Ablerus. 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, to Elatus was fatal, 
Who, by the side of Satnious, that smoothly-flowing river, 
Dwelt in the lofty Pedasus. — Eurypylus too slaughter'd 35 

Melanthius : while Leitus o'ertook the fleeing Phylax. 

But Menelaus, good at need, meanwhile Adrastus captur'd 
Alive ; for o'er the plain his steeds had gallop'd wild with terror, 
Till in the boughs of tamarisk the crooked car was tangled. 
Then snapping short the pole, themselves career'd without a driver 40 
Back to the city, where the rest had hurried, struck with panic. 
Eor he, their lord, beside the wheel from out the car was tossed, 
Into the dust face-forward hurl'd, helpless : and lo ! beside him 
Stood Menelaus, Atreus' son, with spear of lengthy shadow. 

Adrastus then his knees embrac'd, in lowly supplication : 45 

" Save me alive, Atreus' son ! and take a worthy ransom : 
For in my wealthy father's home are large possessions treasur'd, 
Many and costly ; brass and gold and varied forms of iron : 
Prom these my sire would speedily with boundless ransom please thee, 
Soon as he learns of me alive beside the Achaian galleys." 50 

When thus he spake, his argument the hero's heart was winning : 
Shortly had he the captive sent, by hand of his attendant, 
Unto the sharp Achaian ships, in rear ; but Agamemnon 
Against him quickly running came, and utter'd words of menace : 
21. A Naid y a nymph of freshwater streams. 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 101 

" Menelaus ! gentle heart! and why this care so fruitless 55 
For lives of men ? troth ! thou at home hast met delightsome fortune 
From Troians. Then, let none of them evade, from hands of Argives, 
Headlong destruction. Show not e'en to unborn children mercy ; 
But vanish all of Ilium, unwept, unknown, unburied." 60 

He spake; and by well-reason'd words his brother's mind persuaded ; 
Who thrust Adrastus off from him : and royal Agamemnon 
By a side- stab the foe o'erthrew. Thereat the son of Atreus, 
Stepping with heel upon his breast, pull'd out the ashen weapon. 65 

Then Nestor rais'd his voice aloft, and charg'd the Argive army : 
" Friends, heroes of the Danai, and ministers of Ares, 
Think not of spoil, nor stay behind, each to increase his booty ; 
But slay the men ; then tranquilly shall ye despoil the corpses." 70 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 
Then surely would the Troians beneath the Achaian heroes 
Again have enter'd Ilium, in martial strength defeated ; 

But Helenus Priamides, of all the Troian augurs 75 

The wisest, came and spake a word to Hector and iEneias. 

" Hector and iEneias ! sith of Lycians and Troians 
On you supremely resteth toil ; for-that ye are the bravest 
For every deed of enterprize, and first in every counsel ; 

Patrol the army, form the lines, before the gates array them, 80 
Ere in their wives' embrace they fall, and yield the foe a triumph. 
When ye have strengthen'd all the bands, we at our posts abiding 
Against the Danai will fight, — perforce, if sore the labour. 85 

But Hector, thou the city seek ; and bid our common mother 
Unto greyey'd Athene's fane upon the city's summit 

The aged women to collect ; and with her key to open 

Her sacred closet's door, and choose the robe, which in her palace 90 
Largest and loveliest may be, and to herself the dearest : 
This let her place upon the knees of ample-hair'd Athene : 
And pledge the vow to consecrate twelve heifers in her temple, 
Yearlings, unknowing of the goad, if- that she deign to pity 
The city of the Troians, their wives and infant offspring; 95 

If she from sacred Ilium may ward the son of Tydeus, 



102 THE ILIAD. [book vi. 

That spearman wild and truculent, stout counsellor of terror : 
Whom I in sooth affirm to be the stoutest of the Achaians. 
Not even from Achilles' self, chiefest of heroes, felt we 

So much affright, altho' (they say) a goddess mother bare him. 100 
But this man rageth wondrously, and none his might may equal." 

He spake; and Hector willing show'd compliance to his brother, 
And from his chariot straightway leapt to the ground in armour. 
Two pointed jav'lins brandishing, thro' all the army went he, 
Enheartening his men, and rous'd the deadly cry of battle. 105 

Then did they gather to a ball, and stood against the Achaians ; 
And back the Argives drew themselves, and respite made of carnage. 
For some immortal seem'd to them down from the starry heaven 
With aid among the Troians to drop ; so quick they rallied. 

Then Hector rais'd his voice aloft, and charg'd the Troian army : 1 10 

"Ye high-soul'd Troians, and ye allies from distance summon'd ! 
Be men, my friends ! nor negligent of furious encounter, 
Whilst Ilium I seek, and urge our counsellors and consorts 
Unto the deities to pray and hecatombs to promise." 115 

Then Hector of the motley helm with such address departed. 
His bossy shield (so vast its orb) with its black rim of leather 
Battled alternate, as he mov'd, against his neck and ankles. 

Then in the midst, between the hosts, did Tydeus' son and Glaucus, 
The offspring of Hippolochus, meet eager for the combat. 120 
When they to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 
Him Diomedes, good at need, first with salute accosted : 

"Bravest of men, what name is thine among the race of mortals? 
For never have I look'd on thee in man-ennobling combat 
On former days ; but now by far surpassest thou in boldness 125 
All men, — who darest to await my spear with lengthy shadow : 
And troth ! unhappy are the sires, whose sons my force encounter. 
But if from heaven thou art come, and art a god immortal, 
Not lightly into stern debate with such would I adventure. 

No, truly ! for Lycurgus too, the hardy son of Dryas, 130 

Lasted not long, who strove against the habitants of heaven. 
For he of yore the nurses chas'd of frantic Dionysus 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 103 

Along the heav'nly Nysa's cliff : they, with an ox-goad wounded 

By murderous Lycurgus' hands, did all in wild disorder 

Shed on the ground their sacred gear; but Dionysus, frighten'd, 135 

Into the briny billow plung'd : and Thetis in her bosom 

Caught him all shuddering: for dread from the man's raving seiz'd him. 

Therefore the gods who live at ease hated the man Lycurgus, 

And Saturn's child his sight destroy'd : nor lasted he much longer, 

When into enmity he rush'd with all the gods immortal. 140 

Wherefore against the blessed ones fain would I shun to battle. 

But if a mortal man thou art, and earthly viands eatest, 

Come nearer ; so thou earlier destruction's goal shalt compass." 

To him the gallant offspring of Hippolochus responded : 
" Why askest thou my origin, high-hearted son of Tydeus ? 145 
As leaves upon the trees are born, such is the birth of mortals. 
Of leaves one brood before the wind on earth is shed ; but others 
Soon from the budding forest rise, in hour of spring succeeding : 
So too the courses of mankind grow up and fail, successive. 
But if it please thee this to learn, then straight will I inform thee, 150 
Who are our parents : — and with this are many men acquainted. 
A city dwelleth in a nook of courser-feeding Argos, 

Ephyra, town of Sisyphus, the craftiest of mortals : 

Father to him was iEolus, but Glaucus was his offspring : 

And Glaucus in his turn begat spotless Bellerophontes, 155 

On whom the heav'nly gods bestow'd beauty and lovely courage. 
But Proetus, who was mightier (for Jove beneath his sceptre 
Subdued the Argives), hated him, and drave him from the people. 
For Proetus' wife, divine Anteia, burn'd for him with frenzy, 160 
Yet might not win the righteous heart of sage Bellerophontes. 
Then she with false and wicked words king Proetus thus accosted : — 
Proetus ! either die thyself, or slay Bellerophontes, 
Who tried, in service of his lust, my will to overmaster. — 165 

When from his spouse such tale he heard, the prince was seiz'd with anger. 
To slay his rival he forbore (for boding thoughts withheld him), 

But sent him forth to Lycia, and gave him baleful tokens, 

152. Ephyra; here, for Corinth. In 2, 659, is another Ephyra. 



104 



THE ILIAD. 



[BOOK VI. 



Engraving many a deadly mark 
To show unto his consort's sire 
So went he forth to Lycia 
But when to Lycia he came 
The prince of wide-spread Lycia 
Nine days he entertain' d the guest, 
But when the rosyfinger'd Morn 
Then did he question put to him 
Which by Bellerophontes' hand 



within a folded tablet, 

and work his sure destruction. 170 

by blameless heav'nly escort. 

and to the streaming Xanthus, 

gave to him friendly welcome : 

nine oxen did he offer. 

a tenth time dawn'd upon him, 175 

and ask to see the token, 

his daughter's lord might send him. 

and knew the mind of Proetus, 



But when the evil marks he saw 

First sent he him with charge to kill the infuriate Chimsera, 

Who came not from the world of men, but was a brood unearthly, 180 

With lion's front and serpent's tail, a goat in centre only, 

From whom the direful might of fire came blazing thro' the nostrils : 

Yet her he slew, obedient to prodigies from heaven. 

Next, with the famous Solymi did he engage in combat, 

And deem'd, that never fight of men a hardier he enter'd. 185 

Then Amazons, a match for men, in third emprize he conquer'd. 

But for his backward path the king wove new device of danger : 

From the broad land of Lycia he pick'd the bravest heroes, 

And laid an ambush; — yet of these not one his home regained ; 

For all of them the spotless man Bellerophontes slaughter'd. 190 

But when the king at length in him discern'd the goodly offspring 

Of heaven, he detain'd him there, and tendered his daughter, 

And eke, imparted half to him of all his royal honour. 

Also for him the Lycians apportioned a portion, 

Select, for his enrichment; fair with orchards and with tillage. 195 

That marriage yielded children three to sage Bellerophontes, 

Isander and Hippolochus and fair Laodameia. 

And Jove the Counsellor desir'd Laodameia's beauty, 

169. Engraving, — scratching or painting. It is still disputed, whether pic- 
ture- writing like the Mexican, is intended, or rather, under poetical phrases, 
alphabetic writing. 

171. Blameless seems here opposed to the forbidden arts of sorcery, magic, 
&c. So 9, 128. 

179. Chimcera, in Greek simply means a She-goat, and is so used in v. 181. 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 105 

Who bare to him that match for gods, Sarpedon brazen-helmed. 

But, when at length the spotless chief by all the gods was hated, 200 

Over the plain of Wandering then wandered he lonely, — 

Devouring his own heart and soul, — the track of man avoiding. 

For by the famous Solymi, in new array of battle, 

Ares, insatiate of blood, had slain his son Isander : 

And golden-bridled Artemis in anger slew his daughter. 205 

But me Hippoiochus begat, and him I claim as parent. 

He into Troas sent me forth, and many charges gave me, 

Alway to be preeminent, and play the chief to others, 

Nor to misgrace my fathers' breed, who foremost were in valour 

Alike in Argive Ephyra and Lycia's expanses. 210 

Such is the parentage, and such the blood, in which I glory." 

Then Diomedes, good at need, hearing his speech, was joyful. 
Upon the many -feeding earth, upright his spear he planted, 
And thus with kindliness address'd the shepherd of the people : 

"Troth! thou a stranger-friend to me art by ancestral title. 215 

For godlike Oeneus formerly for twenty days detained, 

And banqueted within his halls, spotless Bellerophontes. 
Fair gifts of hospitality then each with other changed. 

Oeneus a girdle gave to him with Punic dye resplendent : 

To him Bellerophontes gave a golden double-goblet; 220 

And I, departing for the war, left it within my palace. 

But Tydeus I remember not : for still was I an infant 

At home remaining, when at Thebes the Achaian host was ruin'd. 
Therefore to thee a friendly host am I in midmost Argos, 
And thou to me in Lycia, when I their people visit. 225 

But let us, each amid the throng, with spear avoid the other. 
Enough I find of Troians and brave allies, to slaughter, 

205. Sudden deaths, especially of women, are attributed to the arrows of 
Artemis. See 428, and 19, 59. 

216. Oeneus, — father of Tydeus father of Diomedes. Meleager (2, 642) was 
successor to his father Oeneus in Aetolia : his brother Tydeus married a daughter 
of Adrastus, king of Argos (and of Sicyon, 2, 572) son of Talaus (2, 566). 
Hence Diomedes succeeded to the principality of Argos, though his father was 
an Aetolian (4, 399). 



106 THE ILIAD. [book vi. 

Whom God to me may grant, and whom I overhend in fleetness : 
Thou too enough of Argives hast to slay, if thou be able. 
But let us, each with other, change our arms ; that all who see us 230 
May know, that, to be stranger-friends is our ancestral glory." 

On such alternate argument, they from their cars descending 
Each of the other seiz'd the hand and pledges gave of friendship. 
Thereat did Jove Saturnius the wit of Glaucus cripple, 

Who with Tydides Diomed exchange of arms accepted, 235 

And gave his gold for common brass, for nine a hundred oxen. 

Meanwhile retiring, Hector reach'd the Skaean gates and beech tree, 
And all around him flock' d the wives and daughters of the Troians, 
To make inquiry for their sons, their brothers and their kinsmen, 
And for their husbands. He,in turn, with solemn train commanded 240 
All to entreat the gods : but grief was held in store for many. 

But when at Priam's gorgeous house, with shining porches builded, 
He had arriv'd, — wherein were rang'd fifty bright marble bowers, 
All side by side; where Priam's sons sleptwith their wedded consorts;245 
But opposite, within the court, were twelve bright marble bowers, 
Under the roof, all side by side, abode of Priam's daughters, 
Where slept, beside their wives august, the sons-in-law of Priam : — 250 
Just then, benign in tenderness, his mother came across him, 
Leading with her Laodike, the fairest of her daughters ; 

And closely did she press his hand, and spake, his name pronouncing; 

"And why,my child,thus comestthou, leaving the hardy battle ? 
xAchaia's children (luckless name !) around the city warring, 255 

Sorely, I guess, outwear the folk ; and thee thy mind commanded 
To come and raise thy hands to Jove upon the city's summit. 
But stay, and let me bring thee wine. With wine, as honey pleasant, 
Shalt thou libations make to Jove and other gods immortal, 
Firstly ; and afterward thyself shalt by the draught be strengthen'd. 
W T ine to a man allwearied increaseth mighty vigour ; 

As wearied art thou, my son, thy kinsmen's lives defending." 

Great Hector of the motley helm then spake to her responsive : 
"Kaise not to me heart-soothing wine, venerable mother, 
Lest thou my limbs unnerve, and steal my memory of valour. 265 

It shameth me, the sparkling wine to pour with hands unwashen 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 107 

To Jupiter ; nor may a man with gore and filth bespatter'd, 

To Saturn's gloomy-clouded son offer a seemly worship. 

But thou with gifts of incense seek Athene booty-driving 

Within her temple, gathering the aged women round thee. 270 

Out of thy sacred closet choose the robe, which in thy palace 

Largest and loveliest may be, and to thyself the dearest : 

This do thou place upon the knees of amplehair'd Athene : 

And pledge thy vow to consecrate twelve heifers in her temple, 

Yearlings, unknowing of the goad, if that she deign to pity 275 

The city of the Troians, their wives and infant offspring : 

If she from sacred Ilium may ward the son of Tydeus, 

That spearman wild and truculent, stout counsellor of terror. 

Do thou, within her fane, approach Athene booty-driving : 

But I must Alexander seek, and summon him, if haply 280 

He will to feel reproaches. Oh ! that Earth might yawn to gulp him ! 

For troth ! a grievous pestilence to mighty -hearted Priam 

And all his sons and all his folk the Olympian hath rear'd him. 

If to the house of Aides him I beheld descending, 

Seemeth, my mind would then be rid of misery's remembrance." 285 

He spake. Then she, unto her halls departing, gave commandment 
To her attendants : they forthwith about the city gather'd 
The aged women. She herself went to her perfum'd chamber, 
Where robes of curious broidery, many and large, were treasur'd, 
Wrought by Sidonian women, whom the godlike Alexander 290 

Himself from Sidon brought to her, over the broad flood sailing 
In that emprize of voyage, which bare off the highborn Helen. 
Of these did Hecuba take one, for honour to Athene, 
Which was in varied broideries most beautiful and largest : 
Like to a star its brilliance was ; and undermost she found it. 295 
Then forth she hied ; and after her pour'd many aged women. 

But when Athene's fane they reach'd upon the city's summit, 
To them the doors were opened by dainty-cheek'd Theano, 
Whose sire wasKisseus,but her lord Antenor coursertaming ; 
Eor-that the Troians her had set to be Athene's priestess. 30 

Then all, with trilling cry, their hands uplifted to Athene. 
Thereat, the robe all gorgeous did dainty-cheek'd Theano 



108 THE ILIAD. [book vi. 

Place reverent upon the knees of amplehair'd Athene ; 
And to the imp of mighty Jove spake vow and supplication : 

"Lady Athene, maiden -queen, defendress of the city, 305 

Divine of goddesses ! break thou the spear of Diomedes, 
And cast before the Sksean gates himself the hero headlong : 
So do we vow to consecrate twelve heifers in thy temple 

Yearlings, unknowing of the goad, if that thou deign to pity 
The city of the Troians, their wives and infant offspring-."310 

So utter'd she the vow; nor gain'd assent from maid Athene. 

Thus to the child of mighty Jove did they their worship offer ; 
But Hector, he meanwhile had reach 'd the house of Alexander, 
All-splendid, which himself had built by men, who then were counted 
Of all in loamy Troas' land the craftiest of workmen ; 315 

Who built for him a spacious hall, a court and secret bower, 
To Priam's self and Hector near, upon the city's summit. 
There enter'd Hector, Jove-belov'd; and in his hand he wielded 
A lengthy spear, which measur'd ells eleven ; and before him 
Glitter'd its brazen head, whose neck a golden ring surmounted. 320 
But he his brother found, employ'd about his beauteous armour 
Within his bower ; handling shield and crooked bow and corslet : 
And Argive Helen sat amidst her own domestic women, 
Giving to every hand its task o£ glorious achievement. 

Hector look'd on, and bitterly with words of blame address'd him. 

" elf-possessed wight ! 'tis ill such gloomy bile to foster. 
The people, round the lofty wall and o'er the plain contending, 
Perish. On score of thee, behold ! clamour and battle blazeth 
Abroad on every side ; and thou wouldest assail another, 
If any thou didst haply see relax'd from hateful warfare. 330 

But up and act; lest soon the town by foeman's fire be warmed." 

But thus responsively to him spake godlike Alexander : 
"With right, and not beyond the right, hast thou reproach'd me, Hector! 
To thee then will I speak: but thou, promise to me to listen ! 
Within my bower here sat I, no gloomy bile indulging 335 

Nor scorn of Troians ; but, I wish'd to yield myself to sorrow. 

324. Glorious is explained by 3, 126-8. 

331. Warmed is a bitter joke for Burned : so elsewhere. 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 109 

But now by force of gentle words my wife hath me persuaded 

Into the war to hurry : yea, myself I deem it better, 

So to determine. — Victory her champions exchangeth. 

But wait thou at my side, while I put on my martial armour ; 340 

Or go, and I will follow thee, and think I shall o'ertake thee." 

He spake, but no reply came back from motley-helmed Hector; 
To whom with soothing accents spake Helen, divine of women : 

" 0, brother thou of me, who am a mischiefworking vixen, 
A numbing horror, — better far deserv'd I, when my mother 345 
First gave me light, an evil squall of rushing wind had borne me 
Into the dells of mountain beasts, or through the brawling billows : 
There would the wave have swept me off, ere deeds of woe were compass'd. 
But tho' it pleas'd the gods above these miseries to destine, 
I might have chosen me at least some braver man as partner, 350 
Able to suffer from contempt and mockeries of mortals^ 

But as for this one, neither now his mind is firm, nor ever 
Hereafter will be : therefore he (I deem) will reap disaster. 
But enter now, and in this chair take thou a seat beside me, 
My brother ! since on thee in chief hath toil and sorrow crowded, 355 
For me, the vixen of my sex, and Alexander's frenzy ; 

On both of whom hath Jupiter laid evil fate, which alway 
To men of aftertime shall yield a theme of song unfailing." 

Great Hector of the motley helm then spake to her responsive : 
€C loving Helen, stay me not : nor may I be persuaded : 360 

My heart already o'er the field rusheth abroad, to succour 
The Troians, who sorely feel the absence of their leader. 

Bather, do thou thy husband rouse, and let himself be active, 
That me he shortly may rejoin, ere-that I quit the city. 
For to my home must I too go, to look upon its inmates, 365 

My loved wife and infant boy : for none can know the future, 
Whether, returning safe, again I yet may see their faces, 
Or whether, by Achaian hands, the gods may lay me prostrate." 

Then Hector of the motley helm with such discourse departed. 
Unto his mansion's goodly site he speedily was carried, 370 

Nor found whitearm'dAndromache still in her halls abiding, 
354. Chavr t a double-chair, as 3, 425. 



110 THE ILIAD. [book vi. 

But to a tower gone was she, with a fullrob'd attendant 

Bearing her infant: there she stood, melted in tears and plaining. 
But Hector, soon as he within found not his spotless consort, 
Stept backward to the threshold: thence, he call'd to the domestics :3 7 5 

" Hearken, ye women of my house, and answer to me truly, 
Whither whitearm'd Andromache went forth from out the palace. 
Doth she the mansion haply seek of fullrob'd female kindred ? 
Or went she to Athene's fane, where other Troian women, 
Comely with matron-tresses, crave the dreadful goddess' favour ?" 380 

To him the keeper of his house, discreet of women, answer'd : 
" Hector! sith thou commandest us the very truth to tell thee, 
Neither doth she the mansion seek of fullrob'd female kindred, 
Nor went she to Athene's fane, where other Troian women, 
Comely with matron tresses, crave the dreadful goddess' favour: 385 
But to a tower forth she went through Ilium, on hearing 
TheTroians worsted were, and great the puissance of the Achaians. 
So she unto the outmost wall to see the war hath hurried, 

In frantic fashion ; and the nurse her infant beareth with her." 

So spake the chief domestic ; then forth from his house did Hector390 
Haste on the selfsame path again, along the streets well-builded. 
When at the gates he was arriv'd, through the great city passing, 
The Sksean gates ; — for there would he pass out to join the army ; — 
Here did his richly-dowed wife come hurrying to meet him, 
Andromache, whose father was Eetion great-hearted, 395 

Eetion, who held his home beneath the woody Placus, 

And to Cilicians was prince in Hypo-Placan Thebe : 

His daughter was in wedlock held by brazenhelmed Hector, 
And met him now : along with her went the fullrob'd attendant 
Bearing within her arms the child, a tenderminded infant, 400 

Like to a brightly twinkling star, the darling son of Hector, 
Whom Hector call'd Scamandrius, but all the other Troians 
Astyanax : for Ilium was sav'd by Hector only. 

397. Hypo-Placan, i. e. under Placus. On Thebe see 1, 366. It must not 
be confounded with Boeotian Thebes, which Diomedes and his confederacy 
destroyed, 4, 406 ; and of which Hypothebe, 2, 505, was an outpost. 

403. Astyanax, prince of the city. 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. Ill 

The father cast upon his boy a glance, and smil'd in silence : 

But by his side Andromache stood, all in sorrow melted, 405 

And closely did she press his hand, and spake, his name pronouncing : 

" Oh elf-possess'd in hardihood, thy very might will kill thee ; 
Nor pitiest thy infant child, nor me thy wife ill-fated, 

Who soon shall be despoil' d of thee: for, rallying together, 
Soon shall the Achaians slay thee : but, for me, of thee bereaved, 410 
Better were it, below the earth to sink : for other comfort 
None will remain, if thou by fate shalt once be overhended, 
But only griefs : for, father none have I, nor queenly mother : 
For Achileus, a match for gods, slaughter'd my sire, and ravag'd 
The city of Cilicians, the loftygated Thebe, 415 

Planted upon a goodly lot : but when he slew their chieftain, 

The bloody corpse despoil'd he not (for boding thoughts withheld him), 
But burn'd it, even as it was, in all the curious armour, 

And rais'd a barrowmound above ; and round it elms were planted 
By mountain-damsels, heavenly imps of Jove the segisholder. 420 

But those who in my father's halls were rear'd, my brothers seven, 
They in a single day went all down to the house of Pluto ; 

Por all of them divine Achilles foot-reliant slaughter'd, 
When they the snowy sheep would guard and clumsyfooted oxen. 
And for my mother ; queen was she, beneath the woody Placus, 425 
And her he brought away with him, along with other booty, 
Then for a splendid ransom-price releas'd her ; but she perish'd 
By arrow-pouring Artemis within my father's chambers. 

But Hector, thou my father art and thou my queenly mother, 
Thou art to me for mother's son, and thou my blooming consort. 430 
But come now, pity me ; and here abide upon the tower, 
Nor doom thy child to orphanhood, and make thy wife a widow. 
By the wild figtree post the bands in firm array ; where chiefly 
Accessible the city is, and where the wall was mounted. 

Por thrice have here the bravest foes assay'd to force an entrance, 435 
Around the two Ajaces, and Idomeneus the famous, 

Around the Atridse, and around the doughty son of Tydeus ; 
Whether-that one gave hint to them, with oracles acquainted, 
Or-that their proper notion hath imagin'd and enjoin'd it." 



112 THE ILIAD. [book vi. 

Great Hector of the motley helm then spake to her responsive : 440 
" lady, all this argument by me too is regarded : 

But direfully abash'd were I before the men of Troas 

And Troian women trailing-rob'd, if, skulking like a coward, 
I shunn'd the war: nor doth my heart allow it ; but hath taught me 
Mid foremost Troians to fight and show a chieftain's virtue, 445 
And guard my father's great renown and lift myself to glory. 
Tor this, in heart and soul, full sure I know ; a day is coming, 
A day, when sacred Ilium for overthrow is destin'd, 

And Priam's self, and all the folk of ashen-speared Priam. 
But not so much for Troians, hereafter, feel I sorrow, 450 

Nor e'en for Hecuba herself, and for the royal Priam, 

Or for my many brothers brave, who, by the hands of foemen, 
Slaughter'd will fall in dust: — for none of these doth anguish rend me, 
So, as for thee : whom haply one of brazencloak'd Achaians, 
Despite thy tears, shall lead away spoil'd of thy day of freedom : 455 
Then for a foreign mistress thou wouldst weave, in Argos dwelling, 
Or from Thessalian Messes or Argive Hypereia 

Bear water; — sore against thy will: bat stern constraint will force thee. 
And haply one may say, who sees a tear from thee to trickle ; — 
1 This is the wife of Hector, who, of courser-taming Troians, 460 
' When rag'd the war round Ilium, held primacy in battle.' 
So may one say hereafter ; then, in lack of such a husband 
To ward the day of slavery, on thee will fall new sorrow. 

But oh, may death my senses shut, and piles of earth conceal me, 
Ere-that I see thee dragg'd away and hear thy shriek of anguish."465 

Thus saying, gallant Hector stretch'd his arms toward his infant. 
But back into the bosom of the nurse with dapper girdle 

The child recoil'd with wailing, scar'd by his dear father's aspect, 
In terror dazzled to behold the brass, and crest of horsehair, 

Which from the helmet's topmost ridge terrific o'er him nodded. 470 
Then did his tender father laugh, and laugh* d his queenly mother, 
And gallant Hector instantly beneath his chin the helmet 

Unfasten'd ; so upon the ground he laid it all resplendent : 
Then pois'd his little son aloft, and dandled him, and kiss'd him, 
457. Messe'is, Hypereia,) — two fountains ; see 2, 734. 



book vi.] THE ILIAD. 113 

And rais'd a pray'r to Jupiter and other gods immortal : 475 

" Jupiter, and other gods, grant ye, that this my infant 
Soon may become his father's like, among the Troians signal, 
Mighty to reign in Ilium, and terrible in prowess. 

And when from battle he returns, may some one say hereafter, — 
'Far greater than his sire is he' ; and may he with him carry 480 
The gory trophies of a foe, his mother's heart to gladden." 

Thus saying, in the mother's arms he plac'd the tender infant ; 
And she her own dear child receiv'd within her fragrant bosom, 
Laughing amid her tears : the which her husband saw, and pitied ; 
And soothing her with hand and voice, he spake, her name pronouncing : 

" Oh elf-possessed ! let not grief extravagant betoss thee. 
No man, o'erpassing fate's decree, shall hurry me to Pluto : 
But Destiny, I well aver, no mortal wight hath scaped, 

From the first day he saw the light, — nor noble heart nor coward. 
But thou, returning to thy house, to thine own work betake thee, 490 
The loom and distaff, — diligent ; and see that thy attendants 
Their tasks appointed duly ply ; but men must care for battle, — 
All, who in Ilium are born, and I, thy Hector, chiefly." 

So gallant Hector spake, and took his horsetail-crested helmet. 
But his dear partner, leaving him, unto her home departed, 495 

With many a turn and lingering, and gaze by tears beclouded. 
Soon at the mansion nobly plac'd of hero-slaying Hector 
Did she arrive, and found within a gather' d crowd of handmaids, 
Aged and young ; and in them all she wak'd a love of sorrow. 
So they, for Hector still alive, in his own home were wailing. 500 
For, sooth, they counted not that he, out of the war returning, 
Would look on them again, escap'd from hands and might of Argos. 

Nor long did Paris stay behind within his lofty mansion ; 
But he his glorious armour donn'd, inwrought with brass, and hurried 
Along the spacious Ilium, on rapid feet reliant. 505 

As when a charger, closely kept, highpamper'd at the manger, 
Bursting his halter, o'er the plain with prance and gambol trampleth, 
Accustom'd in the flood to bathe of some fair-streaming river, 
Wild glorying; and holdeth high his head, and off his shoulders 
Eusheth the mane abroad; and he in his brave beauty trusteth ; 510 



114 THE ILIAD. [book vn. 

Lightly his knees then carry him to horses' haunts and pastures : 

So from the highth of Pergamus did Paris, son of Priam, 

All radiant in armour, speed, like to the amber day-god, 

Laughing in brilliant grandeur: him his rushing feet escorted. 

Thus speedily he overtook his godlike brother Hector, 515 

Who there still linger'd, where with him his own beloved commun'd. 

Then Alexander, peer of gods, to him began discourses : 

"My gracious sir, thou hastenest, and I in sooth detain thee 

By tarrying ; nor duteous arriv'd I, as thou badest." 

Him Hector of the motley helm responsively accosted : 520 

" elf-possessed wight ! no man, who rightful is of spirit, 

Thy deeds of battle may despise; for doughty is thy valour. 

But wilfully dost thou relax, refusing war : and sorrow 

My inmost heart possesseth, when reproachful words against thee 

I hear from Troians, who endure on score of thee much travail. 525 

But go we: afterward will we these things arrange, if haply 

Jove grant, that we unto the gods of heav'nly birth eternal 

Hereafter in the palace crown with wine the bowl of freedom, 

When we from Troas have expell'd the dapper-greav'd Achaians." 



BOOK VII. 

xxftee, such parley, from the gates outsallied gallant Hector ; 
And with him Alexander went ; and both the royal brothers 
Alike were fill'd with eagerness for man-ennobling combat. 
And, as to wishful mariners when Heaven hath vouchsafed 

A wafting breeze, what time as they with blades of fir well-polish'd 
Dashing the wave are wearied, and toil their limbs hath loosen'd 
So then the brothers twain appear'd unto the wishful Troians. 
Then Alexander cast to earth Menesthius of Arne, 



book vii.] THE ILIAD. 115 

Son of Areithoiis : for, him large-ey'd Philomedusa 

To a club- wielding chieftain bare, Areithoiis the hardy. 10 

But Hector smote Eioneus beneath the helmet's margin 

Right thro' the neck with pointed lance, and cast his body helpless. 

And Grlaucus Hippolochides, who was the Lycian leader, 

Hit with his spear Iphinoiis amid the hardy struggle, 

Upon the shoulder, — Dexis' son, — when he upon his horses 1 5 

Would leap; but down to earth he fell, and there his limbs were loosen'd. 

But when, from heaven looking down, Athene, greyey'd goddess, 
Saw them her Argives ravaging amid the hardy struggle, 
Down from Olympus' summits she with sudden rush descended 
Unto the sacred Ilium. To meet her, sped Apollo, 20 

As high from Pergamus he gaz'd and wish'd success to Priam. 
So did the twain from adverse part beside a beech encounter ; 
And her the prince, the son of Jove, Apollo, first accosted : 

" Daughter of lofty Jupiter ! and why dost thou so eager 
Haste from Olympus? whereto now doth mighty passion urge thee ? 25 
To Argives wiliest thou to give the mastery of battle, 
Sith thee for Troians perishing no thought of pity holdeth ? 
But if my counsel thou regard (which greatly would be better), 
Now let us intermission set of war and foeman's bargain, 

To-day; — but afterward shall they again debate in battle, 30 

Till-that an end of Ilium be found ; if thus is pleasant 

To you immortal goddesses, to storm and rieve the city." 

Thereat to him responding spake Athene, greyey'd goddess : 
" So be it, Far-averter ! sith myself from high Olympus 

Am come, such counsels pondering, mid Troians and Achaians. 35 

But tell me, how designest thou to stay the war of heroes?" 

To her the prince, the son of Jove, Apollo, thus responded : 
" Let us the sturdy prowess rouse of courser-taming Hector, 
If haply to the Danai he, one to one, make challenge 

In battle's perilous debate with adverse force to com oat ; 40 

Then, stung by such indignity, the brazen-greav'd Achaians 
Spur-on some single champion to war with godlike Hector." 

He spake, nor uncompliant found Athene, greyey'd goddess. 
But their discourses Helenus, beloved son of Priam, 44 



116 THE ILIAD. [book vii. 

Heard, and discern' d the argument, which pleas'd the gods debating ; 
Then close to Hector's side he stood, and spake his word of counsel : 

"0 Hector, Priam's son! to Jove an equipoise in wisdom ! 
Wouldest thou haply hark to me ? and sooth, am I thy brother. 
Cause all the rest to sit at ease, Achaians and Troians, 
But from the Achaian host do thou the bravest hero challenge 50 

In battle's perilous debate with adverse force to combat. 

Tor not yet is thy destiny, that death and fate shall hend thee ; 

So am I warned, listening to gods of birth eternal." 

He spake; and great was Hector's joy to hear his brother's message. 
Along the Troian front he mov'd and check'd their close battalions,55 
Grasping his spear midway; but all stood motionless in order. 
On other side Atrides stay'd the dappergreav'd Achaians. 

Also Athene, heav'nly maid, and silver-bow'd Apollo 

Over the armies took their seats, in guise of plumed vultures, 
Upon the lofty beech of Jove the aegis-holding father; 60 

Delighted with the warriours, whose ranks were sitting crowded, 
Where amid shields and waving plumes tall pointed lances bristled. 
As when the "Westwind rising new across the boundless water 
Spreadeth afar a shuddering, and streaks the sea with darkness ; 

So were the bright unmoving hosts in bristling patches darken'd 65 
Over the plain. Then Hector spake betwixt the expectant armies : 

"Hear me, ye Troians! hear me too, ye dappergreav'd Achaians! 
That I the counsel may declare which in my bosom riseth. 
The loftybench'd Saturnius our oaths hath not accomplish'd, 

But bodeth on the double host some plot of dark disaster, 70 

Till either ye the ramparts gain of our high-tower'd city, 
Or we your bravery lay low by your sea-coursing galleys. 

Of Pan-Achaia's gather'd chiefs my eyes behold the bravest : 
Now then, whome'erhis soul may bid to join in fight against me, 
Let him step forward, — champion and match for godlike Hector. 75 
Such terms of battle do I bear ; — and Jove shall be our witness : — 
If with the lengthy edge of brass your champion shall slay me, 
Let him my armour strip, and bear unto the hollow galleys ; 
But let him give my body back unto my home, that honour 
Prom Troian men and wives of Troy in rightful flames may shrive me. 80 



book vii.] THE ILIAD. 117 

But if Apollo aid my vow and boast, — to slay your hero, — 

Then unto sacred Ilium his armour will I carry, 

And hang it on the temple-walls of Hecatus Apollo, 

But will his corpse restore, to bear unto the wellbencli'd galleys ; 

So shall he find meet burial from streaminghair'd Achaians, 85 

Who hard byHelle's brackish flood, shall heap for him a barrow. 

Then, e'en in late posterity, each mariner of Argos, 

Floating in many-benched ship over the purple waters, 

Shall say : ' Behold the sign of one who fell in ancient battles ; 

Of Argive men a champion, but slain by gallant Hector.' — 90 

So shall one say hereafter : then, ne'er shall my glory perish." 

Such was his challenge: thereupon, they all were dumb in silence: 
Refusal was indignity, acceptance were a danger. 

After long pause, at length stood up the warlike Menelaus, 
And spake with words of contumely, and deeply groan'd within him. 9 5 

"Ah woe ! Achaian threateners, no longer men, but women ! 
For verily will grim disgrace for ever grimly stain us, 

If no one now of Danai dare Hector to encounter. 

But oh! may all of you, who here thus side by side are seated 
Inglorious and cowardly, be turned to earth and water ! 100 

And I myself against this man will arm me : but in heaven 
The prize of victory is judg'd by verdict of the immortals." 

After such utterance, the prince did don his beauteous armour. 
Then, Menelaus ! had thy life beneath the hands of Hector 
Eeach'd its fulfilment speedily ; — for greatly was he stronger : — 105 
Had not the chieftains of Achaia started up and caught thee. 
And Atreus' elder son, himself, wide -ruling Agamemnon, 
By the right hand his brother seiz'd, and spake his name pronouncing : 

"Art mad, Jove-nurtur'd Menelas ? such madness, troth! is needless 
For thee or us : refrain thyself, tho' bitter is thy sorrow, 110 



86. Brackish; the word also, and indeed generally, means Broad. Each 
rendering is explained by supposing that Homer regarded the Hellespont (or 
Dardanelles) as a river and not a sea. 

109. A far more delicate excuse would have been, that Menelaus had recently 
fought ; but Agamemnon is too agitated to be delicate. 



118 THE ILIAD. [book vii> 

Nor wish contentiously to fight with one of higher puissance, 

Hector Priamides ; at whom all Argive faces lower. 

And even Achileus himself, a man than thee far stronger, 

Did shudder to confront his might in man-ennobling combat. 

Hie thee away and take thy seat in troop of thy companions, 115 

And for this man the Argives soon will other match discover. 

Be he intrepid as he may and gluttonous of turmoil, 

Yet do I deem, right gladly he his limbs will rest, if safely 

He scape from battle's outrages and grim embrace of foemen." 

He spake, and by wellreason'd words his brother's heart persuaded; 
Who yielded and forbare to strive. Thereat the squires rejoicing 
Quickly the beauteous armour drew from Menelaiis' shoulders. 
But Nestor to the Argives rose, and spake his word among them : 

"Good spirits! sure a mighty grief home to Achaia reacheth. 
How deep would groan the aged heart of charioteering Peleus, 125 

Haranguer of the Myrmidons and counsellor persuasive ; 

Who in his own abode of yore rejoic'd to prove my knowledge, 
And ask'd of me the parentage and breed of every Argive. 
Now, if he heard that all of these do quail at sight of Hector, 
He his dear hands full oft would raise in prayer to the immortals, 130 
That from his limbs his soul might go into the house of Pluto. 
Would that I had (0 father Jove, Athene and Apollo !) 
Such prowess of my youth, as when Arcadians spear-frenzied 
And Pylians assembling fought by Keladon swift-flowing, 
Amid the streams of Yardanus, beside the walls of Pheia. 135 

To them stood Ereuthalion, a godlike man, as leader, 

Bearing of prince Areithous the armour on his shoulders, 

Godlike Areithous, whom men and brilliant-girdled women 
By a new name did signalize, and titled him Chib-bearer, 

Eor-that he not with lengthy lance nor arrows dealt his battle, 140 
But with an iron-studded club broke down the thick battalions. 
Him did Lycurgus kill by guile, — for truly not by puissance, — 
Within a narrow path, where naught avail'd his club of iron 
Death to avert ; for starting up all suddenly, Lycurgus 
Bight thro' his body thrust the spear and down to hard earth dash'd him, 
And from the corpse the armour stript, which brazen Ares gave him. 146 



book vn.l THE ILIAD. 119 



In this, himself thenceforth was clad amid the broil of Ares. 

But when within his palaces eld-stricken was Lycurgus, 

Then he to Ereuthalion, his dear attendant, gave it : 

Who, in this panoply array'd, did all our bravest challenge ; 150 

And troth! they trembled with alarm, and none stood forth to front him: 

But me my muchenduring soul drave forward into battle 

Against his vaunting : yet was I of all by birth the youngest : 

But I his brunt encounter'd, and Athene gave me glory. 

So slew I then a warriour the sturdiest and biggest : 155 

For plentiful in bulk he lay this way and that extended. 

Oh that I still were thus in youth, and unimpair'd my vigour ! 

Then soon should motleyhelmed Hector meet a foe's encounter. 

But ye, who glory in the name of Pan-Achaia's chieftains, — 

To meet the brunt of Hector, now, not one of you is eager." 160 

Thus spake the old man scornfully, and a full nine upstarted : 
But Agamemnon, prince of men, rose far of all the foremost, 
And after him the son of Tydeus, stalwart Diomedes, 
And next the two Ajaces rose, clad in impetuous valour, 
But next to them Idomeneus, and his belov'd attendant 165 

Meriones, an equipoise to hero- slaying Ares ; 

And after these Eurypylus, Eusemon's brilliant offspring ; 

Andraamon's son too, Thoas, rose, with the divine Ulysses : 
All these were willing combatants, I say, with godlike Hector. 
Again to them the charioteer, Gerenian Nestor, turn'd him : 1?0 

"Now thro' your whole list cast the lot to find the lucky hero ; 
Eor he, with service good, will aid the dappergreav'd Achaians, 
Yea, and himself to his own life do service good, if haply 
He scape from battle's outrages and grim embrace of foemen." 

When thus he spake, each hero mark'd upon his lot a token, 175 

And cast them in the morion of royal Agamemnon. 

Then all the peoples made their pray'r, with hands to heaven lifted, 
And gazing to the vasty sky, thus one or other mutter'd : 

" To Ajax, father Jove ! assign the lot, or to Tydides, 
Or to himself the stately king of gold-endowed Mycenae." 180 

The lots meanwhile the charioteer Gerenian Nestor shuffled 
And shook within the casque: then out leapt, as their wishes prompted, 



120 THE ILIAD. [book vii. 

The lot of Ajax : mid the crowd the herald right wise moving 

Bare and display'd it unto all the champions of Argos ; 

But each in turn rejected it nor recogniz'd the token. 185 

But when through all that company he pass'd, and reach'd the hero, 

Illustrious Ajax, who had mark'd and cast it in the helmet, 

Then to the herald's hand outstretch'd his hollow palm he offer'd, 

And knew the token of his lot, and in his soul was joyful. 

It to the ground before his feet he flung, and straight address'dthera: 

"My friends! the lot, full sure, is mine: and all my soul within me 
Sternly rejoices : for I count to conquer godlike Hector. 

But come ! do ye, meanwhile that I in martial armour busk me, 
Your pray'r to princely Jupiter, the child of Saturn, offer 
In silent bosom every man, lest-that the Troians hear you; — 195 

Or even with loud voices ; sith of none do fears possess us. 
For no one, fierce in wilfulness, shall chase me off unwilling, 
By force ; nor yet by skill of arms : for 'tis my hope that I too 
Was born and bred in Salamis no despicable witling." 

So spake he; then to princely Jove, Saturnius, they prayed, 200 

And gazing to the vasty sky thus one or other mutter'd : 

" Oh father Jove, from Ida ruling, glorious and greatest, 
Grant thou that Ajax carry off conquest and brilliant glory ! 
But if with equal tenderness thou eke dost Hector cherish, 

Then unto both the champions give equal force and honour." 205 

l s hey pray'd: but he in dazzling brass equipp'd him, crown to ankle : 
And when around his tender skin he all his gear had fitted, 
Forward he hurried, such in guise as burly Ares marcheth, 
Moving to war in chase of men, whome'er the child of Saturn 
Hath match'd to fight in bitterness of souldevouring hatred. 210 

Such then, huge towering, advanc'd Ajax, Achaian bulwark, 
Smiling with glances horrible ; and with his feet beneath him 
Strode long and lofty, brandishing the spear with lengthy shadow. 
Then, measuring their warriour, the Argives gaz'd rejoicing, 
While over every Troian limb crept grimly-boding terror, 215 

And e'en to Hector's self the heart leapt stronger in his bosom : 
Yet now no longer choice to him was left, to shrink or shuffle, 
Hidden in numbers ; sith himself to hero-glee had challeng'd. 



book vii.] THE ILIAD. 121 

Then Ajax nearer came, his shield like to a tower bearing. 

Which Tychius for him had wrought of brass and bullhides seven, 220 

Who was of tanners craftiest, and held his home at Hyle, 

And made for him the motley frame complex with folds of leather 

From seven bravely-fatted bulls, and cas'd with brass the seventh. 

Bearing this shield before his breast, then Telamonian Ajax 

Stood near to Hector, front to front, and spake a word of menace : 225 

" Hector, alone with me alone, now shalt thou learn to surety, 
Among the ranks of Danai what champions are nurtur'd, 

Without the hero-crushing might of lion-soul'd Achilles. 
But he, withdrawn within his own sea-coursing crested galleys, 
Darkly, against the people's shepherd Agamemnon, rageth. 230 

But we, the rest, may still suffice thy onset to encounter, 
And many is our crew : but come, begin the feats of battle." 

Then to his argument replied great motley-helmed Hector : 
"OhJove-borngovernour of peoples Telamonian Ajax : 
Tamper not thou with me, as tho' some puny boy or woman 235 

Were I, all-unexperienc'd in deeds of warlike puissance. 

But troth ! weavers' d am I in fight and murderous encounter. 
Toward the right, toward the left, I know to wield the bullhide 
Eigid and sturdy : therefore eke enduring is my battle. 
Amid the race of scouring mares I know to press the hurtle, 240 
And in the standing-fight I know to dance to grisly Ares. 
But, being what thou art, I fain with javelin would reach thee, 
Not by sly peering, but in front, if haply I may hit thee." 

He spake, andpoising, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
And hit the seven-hided frame, the dreadful shield of Ajax, 245 
Upon its outmost edge of brass, which spread as eighth upon it. 
Thro' the six folds the stubborn point of brass ran keenly piercing, 
But in the seventh fold the hide stay'd it. Then Jove-born Ajax, 
Second advancing, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
And hit the shield of Priam's son, which equal was on all sides. 250 
Eight thro' the shield's resplendency hurtled the massy weapon, 
And thro' the corslet's crafty work with force uncheck'd was planted ; 
Close to his side from front to back it glided thro' the tunic, 
Harmless: for quick the hero ninch'd, and gloomy fate avoided. 



122 THE ILIAD. [book vii. 

Then with the hand did each of them pluck out the dangling weapon,255 
And clos'd in fight anew, in guise of rawdevouring lions, 
Or like to sturdy forest-boars, no easy prey to spoilers. 
The son of Priam with his spear the middle buckler wounded, 
Nor might the metal force its way; but first the point was broken. 
Then Ajax with a mighty bound smote on the shield, and thro' it 260 
Drove deep and far his javelin, which check'd the eager hero, 
And reach'd his neck with force to gash; and out the dark blood spouted. 
Nor yet did motley-helmed Hector, thus renounce the battle ; 
But he, retiring on the plain, with brawny hand uplifted 

A stone, which there behind him lay, mighty and black and rugged, 265 
And with it hit the seven hides, the dreadful shield of Ajax, 
Full in the ceutre of the boss ; — and round it rung the metal. 
After him Ajax rais'd aloft a second stone far bigger, 

And, adding impulse measureless, sent it all-whirling on him. 
The massy weight, like stone of mill, came crushing thro' the buckler,270 
Nor might his knees resist its swing. Cast on his back, and prostrate 
He fell, with shield against him press'd: yet quick Apollo rais'd him. 
Then in close combat of the sword had each the other wounded, 
But that the heralds, who from Jove bear message and from mortals, 
Were present, one fromTroians, one from brazencloak'd Achaians, 275 
Idaeus and Talthybius, discreet alike and honor'd. 

And they betwixt the twain held out their sceptres ; and Idaeus, 
A herald sage in canny thought, thus spake their common errand : 

"No longer, children dear! desire in feats of war to combat : 
For cloud-collecting Jupiter to both of you hath favour, 280 

And both of you are warriours ; of which we all have sample. 
But now arriveth Night: to Night 'tis wise to yield compliance." 

Then Ajax, son of Telamon, accosted him responsive ; 
" Idaeus, put thy argument within the lips of Hector ; 

For he it was, to hero-glee that all the bravest challeng'd. 285 

Let him commence ; then gladly I will follow, where he leadeth." 

Thereat to him responsive spake great motley-helmed Hector : 
" Ajax, sith as God to thee both size and force hath given 
And cunning, and to wield the spear art ablest of the Achaians ; 
Now let us intermission take of war and foeman's bargain 290 



book vii.] THE ILIAD. 123 

This day ; but afterward will we again contend, till Heaven 
Decide our quarrel and bestow on either army conquest. 
For now arriveth Night : to Night 'tis wise to yield compliance ; 
So all the Achaian host shalt thou beside their galleys gladden, 
Those chiefly who are near and dear, and whom thou boldest comrades ; 
Whilst I, within the mighty wall of princely Priam coming, 
Bring gladness to the men of Troy and trailing-robed women, 
Who wend in sacred pageant to win my life of Heaven. 

But come now ; let us mutual bestow illustrious tokens, 
That thus hereafter each may say of Troians and Achaians : 300 

'These men fought opposite, in cause of soul-devouring quarrel, 
Yet were they after reconcil'd, and war by friendship parted.' " 

Thus as he spake, he gave to him a sword with silver studded, 
Presenting it with dapper belt and with the scabbard fitted : 
But Ajax offer'd him in turn a girdle bright with purple. 305 

So parted then the twain: and one hied to the Achaian army, 
The other hasted to the crowd of Troy : and these were joyful, 
When they beheld him thus, alive returning, and deliver'd 
Safe from the hands intractable and grapple fierce of Ajax. 
So up the city led they him nor yet believ'd his safety. 310 

But Ajax, him on other side the dappergreav'd Achaians 

To godlike Agamemnon led, in victory rejoicing. 

But when within the royal tent of Atreus' son they rested, 
For them a bull five years in age the princely Agamemnon 
To Saturn's overswaying child in sacrifice devoted. 315 

They kill'd and gash'd and skinn'd and truss'd, and laid the carcase open, 
And nicely slash'd the smaller bits, and every morsel spitted, 
And broil'd them all right cleverly, and drew them off perfected. 
After the toil had found its end, and all the feast was ready, 
They banqueted, nor did their soul lack wellproportion'd banquet. 320 
But widely-ruling Atreus' son, the hero Agamemnon, 
Yielded the chine, from end to end, to honour valiant Ajax. 
And when desire importunate of food and drink were ended, 

Foremost of all the aged man would weave for them devices, 
Nestor, whose counsel heretofore had eke appear'd the wisest ; 325 
Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd, and spake his word among them : 



124 THE ILIAD. [book vii. 

" Atreus' son, and ye the rest, chieftains of Pan-Achaia, 
Sith as we weep for many lives of streaming-hair'd Achaians, 
Whose dusky blood is spilt, beside Scamander smoothly-flowing, 
By eager Ares, while their souls are hous'd below by Pluto ; 330 
Thee it behoveth, with the dawn to stay the Achaian battle : 
But we ourselves, assembling us, with steers and mules from all sides 
Hither will bring the valiant dead ; then will we burn the bodies 
Anent the galleys, high at hand ; that, when we homeward voyage, 
Each to the children of the slain may bear their bones and ashes. 335 
And we, around the fires of death, will heap a single barrow, 
Eear'd from the plain, promiscuous; and, close against it, quickly 
Build lofty ramparts, for defence alike of selves and galleys : 
And in the ramparts, eke may we construct weMtted portals, 
Thro' which our charioteers may drive their chariots and horses : 340 
And let us on the outer side deep dig a moat beneath it, 

Which will along the camp protect our chariots and people, 
Lest from the haughty Troians rush battle overwhelming." 

When thus he counseU'd,all the kings to his advice assented. 
Meanwhile, upon the city's highth, the Troians held assembly, 345 
Tumultuous and turbulent, beside the doors of Priam. 

To them, a leader of harangue was prudent-soul'd Antenor : 

"Troians and Dardans and allies! to my discourses listen, 
That I the counsel may declare which in my bosom riseth. 
Come, let us Argive Helen give and all her gear around her, 350 
Eor Atreus' sons to bear away : for now the faithful treaties 
Are by our battle falsified ; wherefore disastrous fortune, 

That thus we may not deal, do I expect to meet from heaven." 

So spake the sage, and down he sat ; but instantly before them 
The lord of bright-hair'd Helen rose, the godlike Alexander, 355 

Who in responsive argument did winged accents utter : 

"Antenor ! this thy word to me no longer friendly soundeth : 
Well knowest thou to meditate some other counsel better. 
But if of very truth suchwise in earnest thou haranguest, 

Then surely have the gods themselves marr'd all thy native prudence. 3 60 
But I do plainly advertise the courser-taming Troians 

And roundly speak it out ; that I the woman will not render : 



book vii.] THE ILIAD. 125 

But all her gear, whate'er I brought into our house from Argos, 

All that will I give back, and eke from my own stores increase it/' 

So spake the prince, and down he sat; then straightway rose before them 
Priam Dardanides, to gods an equipoise in counsel, 

Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd, and spake his word among them : 

"Troians and Dardans and allies! to my discourses listen, 
That I the counsel may declare which in my bosom riseth. 
Now in the city, as afore, let each man take his supper, 370 

And hold remembrance of the watch, and every one be wakeful: 
But let Ideeus go at dawn unto the hollow galleys, 

And utter Alexander's word, for whom this strife hath risen, 

To Menelaiis, Atreus' son, and to his royal brother. 

And add the prudent word hereto, that haply they are willing 375 
To stay them from the din of war, until we burn the corpses. 
Yet will we afterward again the fight renew, till Heaven 

Decide our quarrel, and bestow on either army conquest." 

He spake, and they all duteous did listen and obey him. 
[Along the host, by rank and rank, they took each man his supper ;] 380 
And with the dawn Idseus went unto the hollow galleys. 
And there he found the Danai, the ministers of Ares, 
Assembled at the galley's poop of princely Agamemnon. 
Then, standing in the midst, to them spake forth the loud-voic'd herald : 

" Atreus' son, and ye the rest, chieftains of Panachaia, 385 

A charge I bear from Priam's self and other lordly Troians, 
To speak (if so to all of you pleasant it be and canny), 

A word from Alexander's mouth, for whom this strife hath risen. 
Whatever Alexander brought within his hollow galleys 

Of wares and equipage to Troy ; (oh, had he sooner perish'd!) 390 
All this will he give back, and eke from his own stores increase it, 
But her, the wife of early love to famous Menelaus, 
No wise doth he restore: but sooth! greatly the Troians urge it. 
Also I bear the prudent word, that haply ye are willing 
To stay you from the din of war, until we burn the corpses. 395 
Yet will we afterward again the fight renew, till Heaven 

Decide our quarrel, and bestow on either army conquest." 

So spake the herald : thereupon they all were dumb in silence, 



126 THE ILIAD. [book vii. 

Till Diomedes, good at need, at length his counsel utter'd : 

" No more let any now receive the gear of Alexander 400 

Nor Helen's self: for even one in silliness excelling 
May know, that Kuin's meshes are for Troy already fasten'd." 

So spake he ; and Achaia's sons skirl' d loud in admiration 
At the harangue which Diomedes courser-taming utter'd. 
Then royal Agamemnon spake unto Idseus turning: 405 

"Idaeusl e'en thyself hast heard the word of my Achaians, 
How they reply : and for myself, I too thus find it seemly. 
But as regards the slaughter'd dead, I grudge thee not to burn them. 
For when a man is reft of life and death has seiz'd his body, 
No one can stingy be to him, in soothing fires to shrive it. 410 

But to the oaths let Jove give heed, loud-rumbling lord of Juno." 

Thus having said, aloft he rais'd to all the gods his sceptre ; 
Then back to sacred Ilium return'd the sage Idasus. 

But Troians and Dardanidae were in assembly sitting 

Publicly gather'd, to await Idseus : he returning 415 

Stood in the midst, and spake his tale : then quickly they equipp'd them, 
Alike, the corpses in to bear, and others after fuel. 

So, from their galleys tightly plank 'd, on other side the Argives 
"Were urgent to bear-in the dead, and others after fuel. 420 

Newly across the country's tilth the Sun his beams was casting, 
Forth risen from the waters deep of smoothly-streaming Ocean 
Into the steep of heaven, when each army met the other. 
Then hard was it to recognize each hero from his fellow : 
But, warm tears dropping for the slain, they wash'd away with water 425 
The gore's defilement, and uprais'd the corpses on the waggons. 
But wailings, Priam's royal word forbade ; so they in silence, 
Grieving with inward heart, did heap into a pile the corpses ; 
Then unto sacred Ilium, when all were burnt, departed. 

So likewise on the other side the dappergreav'd Achaians, 430 

Grieving with inward heart, did heap into a pile the corpses, 
And to their hollow galleys back, when all were burnt, departed. 

When not as yet the dawn was come, but still the night was doubtful, 
Already gather'd round the pile a pick'd Achaian body ; 
And they, beside the fires of death, did heap a single barrow 435 



book vii.] THE ILIAD. 127 

Eear'd from the plain, promiscuous; and close against it, quickly 
Built lofty ramparts, for defence alike of selves and galleys. 
And in the ramparts, eke did they construct wellfitted portals, 
Thro' which the charioteers might drive their chariots and horses. 
So did they, on the outer side, deep dig a moat beneath it, 440 
Ample and broad, with pointed stakes all featly palisaded. 

Such were the toils which occupied the streaminghair'd Achaians. 
Meanwhile, with Jove the lightener the blessed gods were sitting 
And gaz'd upon the mighty work of brazen-cloak' d Achaians. 
Then Neptune, shaker of the earth, to them began discourses : 445 

"0 Father Jove! will mortal man on earth's unbounded surface 
Henceforward providence ascribe and counsel to the immortals ? 
Seest not thou, that presently the streaminghair'd Achaians 
A rampart there have built, and dug a moat, anent their galleys, 
Yet no illustrious hecatombs unto the gods have given ? 450 

And far abroad as Dawn is shed, so wide shall be its glory ; 
But that high-tower'd toilsome wall which I and bright Apollo 
Buiided for king Laomedon, no more will men remember." 

To him with indignation huge spake Jove the cloud-collector : 
"Good Spirits! what a word was that, wide-powerful Land-shaker! 455 
Some other of the gods mayhap at mortal schemes might tremble, 
One who than thee was weaker far in sinew and in spirit ; 
But far abroad as Dawn is shed, so wide shall be thy glory. 
But now, go to ! as soon as e'er the streaminghair'd Achaians 
Unto their native land belov'd hie homeward on their galleys, 460 
Do thou break up this rampart huge, and sweep it all to ocean, 
And once again the mighty shore with heaps of sand envelop ; 
So shall the vast Achaian toil eternally be ruin'd." 

Thus they reciprocally held betwixt themselves discourses ; 
Down sank the sun ; yet cannily their work the Achaians ended, 465 
And oxen slew amid their tents, and set themselves to supper. 
But galleys many stood at hand with wine from Lemnos freighted, 
Sent forward by the prudent mind of Jason's son Euneiis, 
Child of Hypsipyle, whom erst in Lemnos Jason wedded. 
But separate, to Menelas and to his royal brother 470 

Did Jason's son a present send, strong wine, a thousand measures. 



128 THE ILIAD. [book viii; 

Then for supply of wine went down the streaminghair'd Achaians, 
With oxen-hides, or cows alive, or brass or shining iron, 
Or some with slaves, as barter-price; and made a dainty banquet. 47 5 
Thereafter thro' the livelong night the streaminghair'd Achaians 
Kept banquet ; so the Troians and allies, within the city. 
Yet, all night long, for them was Jove the Counsellor devising 
Evil, and thunder'd direfully. Pale terror seiz'd their bodies ; 

Oft from their cups they spilt the wine; nor any dar'd to drain them, 480 
Till with libation he should greet Saturnius o'erswaying : 
Thereafter, on their couches laid, they took the gift of slumber. 

478. Them, seems to mean the Achaians. 



BOOK VIII. 



Ooon as the saffron-vested Dawn o'er all the earth was scatter'd, 
Forthwith did thunderloving Jove the gods to council summon 

Upon the topmost pinnacle of many-ridg'd Olympus. 

Silent then listeu'd all the gods, while he himself harangu'd them : 

"Oh all ye gods and goddesses ! to my announcement hearken, 5 

That I the counsel may declare which in my bosom riseth. 

Let none of heaven's habitants, of weaker sex or stronger, 

Attempt my argument to thwart ; but all of you together 

Give due assent, that speedily this business I finish. 

"VYhomso of all the blessed gods I may discover wishful, 10 

Hieing apart, to carry aid to Dana'i or Troians, 

Back to Olympus shall he haste in scuffle of disorder : 

Or down to murky Tartarus quick will I catch and fling him, 

Into far distance, where the pit beneath the earth is deepest, 



book vtii.] THE ILIAD. 129 

Where brazen all the pavement is, and iron are the portals, 15 

Lower so much than Aides, as Earth is under Heaven : 

Then shall ye know, how far am I of all the gods the strongest. 
Or come, adventure, all ye gods ! so may ye surely learn it. 
When I a golden chain have dropt from heaven's highth to dangle, 
Lay hold, and throw your force on it, all gods, both male and female ! 20 
Yet never shall ye down to earth drag from the lofty heaven 
Jove, the supreme deviser ; not, e'en though ye toil your utmost. 
But after this, should I in turn with hearty purpose pull it, 
Aloft I draw the Earth itself, and Sea, and all within them. 

Then might I bind the chain around a shoulder of Olympus, 25 

And set the universal world to swing and wait my pleasure. 

So great is my supremacy o'er gods alike and mortals." 

Thus did he charge them: thereupon they all were dumb in silence, 
Aghast at that high utterance : so sturdily he spake it. 
After iong pause, at length replied Athene, grey-ey'd goddess : 30 

"0 thou, supreme of governours, our father, son of Saturn ! 
Right well are we aware ourselves, unyielding is thy power. 
Tet for the spearmen Danai, we none the less have sorrow, 

Who will accomplish destiny, I ween, and vilely perish. 

Now from the war, in truth, will we hold off, as thou commandest ; 35 
But counsel to the Argives still may we suggest, for profit ; 
Lest speedily they perish all beneath thy sore displeasure." 

Then cloud-collecting Jupiter with gracious smile address'd her : . 

" Cheer thee, beloved, Trito-born ! not with a soul so earnest 
Have I harangu'd; and fain would I to thee, my child, be gentle." 40 

So spake he; then beneath the yoke he shot his heav'nly coursers, 
Brazen of foot and swift to fly, with golden manes longstreaming. 
He on his own immortal skin with gold was clad ; and grasping 

The golden lash's canny weight, on his own seat he mounted, 
And flogg'd to drive them, nothing loth in flying race to gallop 45 

In the mid regions, over Earth and under starry Heaven. 
Soon unto Ida, rill-bestream'd, parent of game, arriv'd he, 
At Gargarus, where his domain was fix'd, and fragrant altar. 
There did the Sire of gods and mortals check his steeds' careering, 
And loos'd them from the car, and spread around them mist abundant. 50 

9 



130 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Himself upon the pinnacles sat glorying in grandeur, 

Gazing upon Achaia's ships and on the Troian city. 

But when the Achaians streaminghair'd their early meal had taken 
Quickly amid their tents, from it they truss'd themselves for battle. 
On other side the Troians within the town equipp'd them, 55 

Fewer in numbers ; yet their heart, e'en so, was bent on struggle, 
By dint of hard necessity, for children and for women. 

Then open all the gates were flung, and out the folk came rushing, 
The footmen and the horsemen both, and rous'd unmeasur'd riot. 
When to encounter hasting, they were on one spot assembled, 60 
Hides clash'd on hides and spear on spear, and might with might of heroes 
In brazen armour corsleted : the shields with sturdy bosses 

Each upon each leant hard, and rous'd tumultuous disorder. 
Then rose there, all around, of men a groaning and a boasting, 
Erom victors or from vanquished ; andreek'd the earth with carnage. 65 

While that the morning lasted still and sacred day was waxing, 
So long from either side the darts did fly, and people perish. 
But when the lofty-climbing sun had touch'd his noon of heaven, 
The general Father thereupon his golden balance poised, 
And, charg'd with death slowlingering, two fates he cast within it, 70 
Eor coursertaming Troians and brazencloak'd Achaians. 

He rais'd the scales; then tilting fell the auspicious hour of Argos. 
Upon the many-feeding earth Achaia's fates were planted ; 

The fates of Troas mounted high into the vasty heaven. 
Himself from Ida thunder'd loud, and mid the Achaiau people 75 
Sent forth a streaming brilliancy of flame : and they, beholding, 
Aghast were smitten : over all pale terror held dominion. 
Then neither dar'd Idomeneus to stay, nor Agamemnon. 
Nor either Ajax firmly stood, twain ministers of Ares. 

Alone abode Gerenian Nestor, watcher of the Achaians, 80 

And he, unwilling : but his horse was with an arrow wounded, — 
Which godlike Alexander shot, husband of bright-hair'd Helen, — 
Upon the forehead's topmost point, whereat the horse's forelock 
Takes its first growth from out the skull; and chiefly is it vital. 
Into the brain the shaft had pierc'd: the steed, with anguish rearing, 85 
And writhing round the pointed barbs, the other coursers troubled. 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 131 

While the old man, with cutlass hasting, slash'd away the trappings, 
Which, at the side, entangled him, meantime the steeds of Hector 
In swift pursuit came terrible, bearing a liEirdy hero, 
Hector, as charioteer : and now the aged man had perish'd ; 90 
But Diomedes, good at need, quickly perceiv'd the danger, 

And, with a horror- striking cry, address'd him to Ulysses : 
"Oh Jove-deriv'd, Laertes' son, Ulysses much-contriving, 
Whither, as coward in a crowd, dost turn the back on battle ? 
Beware, lest, as thou fleest, one strike-in his spear behind thee : 95 
But wait, till from the aged man we drive this savage hero." 

He spake; nor did divine Ulysses, much-enduring, heed him, 
But rushing onward, pass'd to reach Achaia's hollow galleys. 
Then Tydeus' son, tho' left alone, plung'd in the foremost battle, 
And stood before the chariot of Neleus' aged offsprings 100 

Then, urgently accosting him, did winged accents utter : 

"Oh aged friend ! in very truth young warriours distress thee : 
Thy force is languid ; Eld to thee is but a weary escort. 
Infirm (I wis) thy charioteer and sluggish are thy coursers. 

But come, this car of mine ascend, and see my steeds' careering, 105 
What virtue hath the breed of Tros, with all the plain acquainted, 
Hither and thither fleet to scour, and chase or flee alternate ; 
Which from iEneias once I took, twain counsellors of terror. 
To these then let our squires attend, but we will on the others 
Straight at the Troians coursertaming hold our course; that Hector 110 
May learn, if haply eke to me the wielded spear is frantic." 

Thus when he spake, the charioteer Gerenian Nestor yielded. 
Then friendly-soul'd Eurymedon and Sthenelus high-hearted, 
Squires of the princes, took in charge the car and steeds of Nestor; 
But on the car of Diomedes mounted both the princes. 115 

Forthwith did Nestor in his hands the glossy bridles gather, 
And flogg'd the coursers : speedily arriv'd they nigh to Hector. 
Eager and straight he came; but quick flew Diomedes' weapon. 
It miss'dthe mark,!and hit him not; but struck the squire beside him, 
Eniopeus, whose father was the lofty-soul'd Thebeeus; 120 

Him, as the horses' reins he held, it thro' the bosom pierced. 
So dropt he from the chariot : the nimble-footed coursers 



132 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Swerv'd with alarm: but he by life and force was there abandon'd. 

Then sorrow for his charioteer grimly o'erclouded Hector, 

Yet left he him, there as he was, to lie, tho' for his comrade 125 

Inly distraught ; but look'd to find some driver bold ; nor truly 

Long did the steeds a ruler lack ; for speedily descried he 

Bold Archeptolemus, the son of Iphitus : him Hector 

Call'd up beside him, and the reins into his hands entrusted. 

Then deeds beyond repair had been, and carnage out of number, 130 
Yea, and the foe in Ilium, like unto lambs, been folded, 

Had not the Sire of gods and mortals speedily perceiv'd it ; 
So with a dreadful thunderclap he threw a bolt of lightning, 
All blazing on the ground, before the steeds of Diomedes ; 
And dreadfully the flame shot up out of the burning brimstone, 135 
And both the coursers, terrified, fell cowering before it. 
Straightway did Nestor from his hands let drop the glossy bridles, 
And, with a soul by fear subdued, accosted Diomedes : 

" Come, son of Tydeus, turn to flight the single-hoofed horses. 
Discernest not, that Jupiter his aid to us refuseth ? 140 

Tor now, the king Saturnius on him bestoweth glory, 

This day ; but afterward again to us, if so he will it, 
Shall he bestow : no human force may Jove's devices parry, 
Be never man so valorous ; for greatly is He stronger." 

Then Diomedes, good at need, accosted him responsive : 145 

"Ay, verily, all this, old friend ! discreetly hast thou spoken ; 
Only, my heart and soul are here by anguish grimly wounded. 
For Hector in harangue will say hereafter to the Troians : 
' The son of Tydeus fled from me in terror to the galleys.' 149 

So will he boast hereafter : then, may the earth yawn to gulp me !" 

To him in turn the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 
"Ah! word how simply utter'd! — son of skilful-hearted Tydeus ! 
If ever Hector thee shall call a coward and unwarlike, 

Yet Troians and Dardanidse will ne'er believe the saying; 

Nor will the wives of buckler-wielding mightyhearted Troians, 155 

Who know too well, that thou in dust hast laid their blooming consorts." 

Upon the w or d, he turn' d to flight the single-hoofed horses 
In swift careering: after them the Troians and Hector, 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 133 

With an unearthly clamour, pour'd their darts' distressful shower. 
Then loudly shouted after him great motley-helmed Hector : 169 

" son of Tydeus, thee of yore the charioteering Argives 
With seat j with dainties, and full cups, preeminent did honour : 
But now will they dishonour thee, who art become a woman. 
Begone, thou puny tender doll ! for never on our towers 
Shalt thou set foot and I give way ; nor shalt thou bear our women 165 
Upon the galleys : earlier, will I assign thy fortune." 

When thus he vaunted, Tydeus' son with double purpose falter'd, 
Longing to wheel his horses round and close in adverse battle. 
Thrice did he hold with mind and soul a conference of passion, 
And thrice did Jove the Counsellor from Ida's mountains thunder, 170 
And to the Troians token gave of mastery in battle. 

But Hector rais'd his voice aloft and charg'd the Troian army : 
" Dardans, who hand to hand contend, and Lycians, and Troians ! 
Be men, my friends ! nor negligent of furious encounter. 
Well know I, that Saturnius to me decreeth conquest 175 

And mighty glory zealously, but to the Argives ruin. 

O simpletons ! who now with toil these ramparts have erected, 
Feeble and nothing worth: for ne'er will these repel my prowess ; 
And lightly will my steeds o'erleap the moat that deep is digged. 
But at what time I reach beside the smoothly-hollow galleys, 180 
Of fiery ravage thereupon let each have some remembrance, 

That I with fire may kindle well their galleys, and may slaughter, 
All scar'd and blinded by the smoke, the Argive crowds beside them." 

After this word, he call'd aloud, to cheer and urge his horses : 
" Now do ye two the nurture-price repay me, which my consort 185 
Andromache, the daughter of Eetion great-hearted, 

With her own hands unsparingly upon your pleasure lavish'd. 
For, the heartsoothing wheat to you she earlier presented, 
And wine she mingled for your drink, whene'er the fancy seiz'd you, 
Sooner than e'en to me, who vaunt to be her blooming consort. 190 
But follow close, and overhend by speed, that we may capture 
The Nestoreian shield ; of which the rumour reacheth heaven, 
How that the guides and shield itself are all of gold constructed. 
Then too, the corslet curious, which toilsome Vulcan fashion'd, 



134 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Would we from off the shoulders strip of courser-proud Tydides. 195 
Well might I hope, if both of these we captur'd, that the Achaians, 
Before the night is gone, would mount upon their speedy galleys." 

When thus he vaunted, shame and rage seiz'd venerable Juno : 
Bestraught, she mov'd upon her throne, and long Olympus shudder'd. 
Then Neptune's mighty godhead she with utterance confronted : 200 

"Good Spirits! doth not even yet, wide-powerful land-shaker ! 
The soul within thy breast beweep the carnage of the Argives ? 
Yet gifts to thee they consecrate at Helike and Aegae 
Many and pleasant : thou in turn for their success bestir thee. 
For if we chose, — all we, by whom the Danai are holpen, 205 

To curb wide-sighted Jupiter and to repel the Troians, 

Alone on Ida might he sit, and there digest his sorrow." 

To her with indignation huge spake the land-shaking ruler : 
" Juno, fearless of discourse, what saying hast thou blurted? 
Never would 2, that we the rest with Jove the son of Saturn 210 
Contend; not e'en by force combin'd: for greatly is He stronger." 

Thus they reciprocally held betwixt themselves discourses. 
Meanwhile the space from galley's poop to moat beside the rampart 
Was fill'd with crowds of fugitives, — horses and shielded heroes, — 
Driven to strait ; and Hector's self, the son of Priam, drave them, 215 
An equipoise for Ares fierce, when Jove to glory rais'd him. 

Now had he burnt with wasting fire the even-balanc'd galleys, 
But that the queenly Juno mov'd the heart of Agamemnon, 
Himself with zeal and diligence the Achaian bands to visit. 
He hied and hurried, passing on beside the tents and galleys, 220 
Bearing upon his brawny arm an ample robe of purple, 
And on Ulysses' galley black he stood, which midmost couched, 

Huge like to some leviathan ; to shout both ways adapted, 

Alike toward the tented camp of Telamonian Ajax 
And to Achilles' bands, which haul'd their even-balanc'd galleys 225 
Last on the strand, on bravery and stubborn strength reliant. 
Then to the Danai abroad with piercing voice he shouted : 

"Handsome of visage, base of fame, O shame, ye men of Argos I — 
Whither are gone the boasts, wherein we said that we were bravest? 
O empty vaunters ; ye who once in Lemnos made pretension ! 230 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 135 

While banqueting on plenteous flesh of lofty-crested bullocks 

And emptying the bowls, with wine o'erbrimming, — sooth ! ye boasted, 

That every one would stand in war, match for a hundred Troians 

Or for two hundred : now are we not worth a single Hector, 

Who shortly will with wasting fire the Argive galleys kindle. 235 

father Jove, didst e'er before with such disaster ruin 

Any of overswaying kings, despoil'd of mighty glory? 

Yet, hither roaming to my woe on many-benched galley, 

No beauteous altar yet of thine I anywhere have slighted ; 

But upon all I dutiful burnt fat and thighs of oxen, 240 

In eager hope of pillaging Troy's nobly-fenced city. 

But Jupiter ! this wish at least do thou for me accomplish : 

Let but my people's lives and limbs come scatheless from the danger, 

Nor thus beneath the Troians crush thou the Achaian spirit." 

When thus he spake, the Sire was griev'd to view him tear-beflooded : 
Assent he nodded, that the host be safe and scape destruction. 246 
Forthwith an eagle sent he forth, of feather' d wights most perfect, 
Which held a swift hind's progeny, a fawn, within its talons ; 
And by a beauteous altar's side, — whereat the Achaians honour'd 
Jove, source of every mystic Voice, — let drop the fawn before them. 250 
But they, discerning that from Him had come the bird of omen, 
Leapt braver on the Troians, and hero-glee remember'd. 

Thereat not one of Danai, tho' many was their number, 

Might boast, in front of Tydeus' son, and earlier, to rally, 
And drive beyond the moat his steeds, and join in adverse combat : 255 
But far the foremost, cast he down the Troian Agelaiis, 
A full-arm' d hero, Phradmon's son; who turn'd to flight his horses • 
But as he turn'd, Tydides fix'd the spear between his shoulders 
Eight in his back, and thrust it thro', and reach'd into his bosom. 
So from the chariot he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 260 

After him Agamemnon came, and eke his princely brother, 
And upon these the Ajaces twain, clad in impetuous courage, 
And after these Idomeneus, and his belov'd attendant 

Meriones, an equipoise to hero-slaying Ares ; 

And after these Eurypylus, Eusemon's brilliant offspring : 265 

The ninth was Teucer, twanging oft his bow's redoubled arches 



136 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Who shelter'd him beneath the screen of Telamonian Ajax. 

Then Ajax slowly would his shield move onward ; but the bowman 

Peering around, if in the crowd he haply with an arrow 

Hit one or other, left him there to gasp away his spirit ; 270 

But he returning, like a child unto his mother's bosom, 

Crept alway into Ajax, who with shining buckler hid him. 

Then who was first of Troians o'erhent by spotless Teucer? 
Orsilochus and Ormenus were first, and Ophelestes, 

And Lycophontes, match for gods, Dsetor and Melanippus, 275 

And Chromius, and Amopaon, son of Polysemon : 
All these successive cast he down on Earth, the many-feeder. 
Then Agamemnon, prince of men, was joyful to behold him 
Wide-wasting from his stalwart bow the Troian battalions, 
And close beside him took his stand, and spake to him approval : 280 

" Dear Teucer, son of Telamon and governour of peoples, 
Shoot thus, and to the Danai haply become a comfort, 

And to thy father Telamon; who nurtur'd thee, when little, 

And, meaner tho' thy birth, within his princely chambers rear'd thee : 
Now, in far distance tho' he is, do thou on glory mount him. 285 
But unto thee so much I say, — which shall be fact accomplish'd : 
If ever segis-holding Jove and maid Athene grant me 

To storm and pillage Ilium, that nobly-builded fortress, 

After myself, thy hand shall first receive a gift of honour, 
A tripod, or a pair of steeds with chariot to match them, 290 

Or a fair woman, suited well in common bed to meet thee." 

Then words reciprocal to him did spotless Teucer utter : 
" O Atreus' son, most glorious, when I myself am eager, 
Why urgest me ? for verily, far as my force availeth, 

Never stop 1: but syne as first to Ilium we drave them, 295 

Thenceforth in ambush with my bow I wait, and slay the foeman. 
E'en now have issued from my string eight lengthy-barbed arrows, 
And all within the limbs are fix'd of callants keen in battle. 
Only to hit this raving dog as yet my art hath fail'd me." 

So answer'd he, and from the string dispatch'd another arrow 
In purpose straight at Hector aim'd; for much he long'd to hit him. 301 
But of his mark he miss'd, and struck with arrow in the bosom 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 137 

\ The spotless prince Gorgythion, the bonny son of Priam, 
Whom erst a mother bare to light, from far iEsyme courted, 
\ In form like to the goddesses, the bright Castianeira. 305 

And as a poppy leans aside its head, which in a garden 

Surcharg'd with its own fulness is and with the vernal moisture ; 
So did he bend his head aside, o'erladen with the helmet. 
But Teucer quickly from the string dispatch'd another arrow 
In purpose straight at Hector aim'd; for much he long'd to hit him. 310 
Yet once again he miss'd; for still Apollo foil'd his finger. 
But upon Archeptolemus, brave charioteer of Hector, 

Eager for battle, fell the shaft, and pierc'd him thro' the bosom : 
So dropt he from the chariot : the nimblefooted coursers 
Swerv'd with alarm ; but he by life and force was there abandon'd. 315 
Then sorrow for his charioteer grimly o'erclouded Hector, 
Yet there he left him lying, tho' stung deeply for his comrade; 
But chancing nigh at hand to see Kebriones his brother, 
Bade him the coursers' reins to take : who heard, nor disobey'd him. 
But from the allresplendent car himself to hard earth leaping, 320 
Seiz'd with his hand a massy rock, and hurried straight at Teucer 
With terror-striking yell; for fierce his soul was bent to crush him. 
He from the quiver verily had pick'd a stinging arrow, 

And on the string adjusted it : but motley-helmed Hector, 
While as he drew it, struck his arm, high up beside the shoulder, 325 
Where the key-bone most critical the neck and bosom parteth ; 
Here with the stony ruggedness he check'd the eager archer, 
And snapt his bowstring : to the wrist his arm was numb'd: he stumbled 
On to his knees, and from his hands forth fell the bow and arrow. 
But Ajax, when his brother fell, no tender care neglected, 330 

But ran and overstrode his limbs and spread the buckler round him. 
Then, on their shoulders propping him, his two belov'd companions, 
Mekisteus son of Echius and the divine Alastor, 

Bare to the smoothly-hollow ships the deeply-groaning archer : 
And soon again the Olympian breath'd might into the Troians. 335 
Then straight toward the moat so deep did they thrust back the Achaians, 
And Hector in the foremost mov'd, with grim delight of prowess. 
In guise no other, than as hound on nimble feet reliant 



138 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Chaseth the buttocks and the hips of savage boar or lion, 

And watcheth when he wheeleth round, and clingeth still behind him ; 

So Hector close]y kept in chase the streaminghair'd Achaians, 

And alway slew the hindmost man; and scar'd the rest before him. 

But when across the palisade and up the moat they clamber'd 

Fleeing, and many fell in death beneath the hands of Troians, 

Then, checking by the galleys' side their wild career, they halted, 345 

And each to other made appeal, and to all gods in heaven 

Did every one with lifted hands his supplication offer. 

And Hector hither, thither, wheel'd his glossy-coated horses, 

His eyes like Ares, pest of man, or like the grisly Gorgon. 

But Juno, whitearm'd goddess,them from heaven saw and pitied, 350 
And to Athene instantly did winged accents utter : 

"Offspring of segisholding Jove, alas ! shall we no longer 
Care, if the Danai do now sink into final ruin ? 

They will accomplish destiny, I ween, and vilely perish 

By dint of one man's force : but he, Hector, the son of Priam, 355 

His madness bridleth not, and lo ! hath wrought full many mischiefs." 

To her with word responsive spake Athene, greyey'd goddess : 
"Ay, troth! would this man many a time be riev'd of life and spirit, 
And perish on his father's soil beneath the hands of Argives, 
But that, by evil mind possest, my own high Father rageth, 360 
Untractable, a sinner old, my efforts alway foiling. 

Nor doth he hold in memory, how oft and oft I rescued 
His son, out wearied beneath the taskings of Eurystheus. [me 

For he to heaven mournfully would weep ; then Jove would send 

In hurry from the lofty sky to aid him with my presence. 365 

But if within my canny mind I had forecast the future, 

When to the portals tightly-barr'd of Aides he ventur'd, 
To bring from Erebus the dog of Aides the awsome, 
Never had he the direful streams of river Styx escaped. 
Now me doth Jupiter disdain, and hath fulfill'd the counsels 370 
Of Thetis, who his knees embrac'd and strok'd his beard, imploring 
That he to honour would exalt Achilles city-rieving. 
Yet one day, troth ! shall he again call me his greyey'd darling. 
But for us twain now harness thou the single-hoofed horses, 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 139 

That I meanwhile within the house of Jove the segisholder 375 

May busk in fit accoutrement for combat ; to discover 
Whether, when we together shine along the battle's causeys, 
The sight will gladden Priam's son, great motley-helmed Hector ; 
Or whether some of Troians too, beside the Achaian galleys 
Fallen in death, with flesh and fat shall glut the dogs and vultures." 

She spake, nor uncompliant found the whitearm'd goddess Juno. 
But Juno, venerable queen, daughter of mighty Saturn 

Mov'd busily, and furbish'd out the golden-trapped horses. 
Meanwhile Athene, maiden-imp of Jove the segis-holder, 
Down on the pavement of her sire shovver'd her robe resplendent, 
Whose tissue she herself had wrought and with her hands embroider'd : 
Then, in a martial tunic clad, address'd her in the armour 
Of cloud-collecting Jupiter to meet the tearful battle. 

Into the flaming chariot then with her feet she mounted, 

And grasp'd her spear, — vast, weighty, stout, — wherewith the ranks she 
Of heroes, whom for wrath she dooms, child of a direful Father, [wasteth 
But Juno keenly with the scourge the coursers touch'd. Before them 
The gates of heaven boom'd aloud, selfmoving : so commanded 
The Hours, who hold beneath their trust great Heaven and Olympus, 
Alike to raise or overspread the closely-shutting darkness : 395 

Betwixt these gates they guided clear the spur-excited horses. 

But when from Ida father Jove beheld, in grim displeasure 
He sent on urgent ambassy the goldenwinged Iris : 

"Hie, hurry, speedy Iris! — back turn thou the twain ! nor suffer 
To thwart my purpose; for in sooth our conflict were unseemly. 400 
For roundly will I say, — and this shall soon be fact accomplish 'd, — 
That I beneath their chariot will lame the nimble horses, 

Out of the seat will cast themselves, and piecemeal smash the carriage ; 
Nor when ten times the Sun hath clos'd the year's revolving circle, 
Shall they of woundsbeheal'd, wherewith my thunderbolt shallscore them; 
So may the greyey'd shun to fight against her proper Father. 
But less with Juno I in truth am angry and indignant ; 

For she, whatever be my bent, is alway wont to cross it." 

He spake; then on her errand sped the stormy-footed Iris, 
And from the mounts of Ida, up went she to long Olympus. 410 



140 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Meeting them at the foremost gates of many-lapp'd Olympus, 

There she detain'd them, and from Jove pronounc'd to them the message: 

"Whither are urgent? why, ye twain, is heart in bosom frantic? 
Saturnius permitteth not to bring the Argives succour. 

Tor Saturn's son hath threatened, if truly he accomplish, 415 

That he beneath your chariot will lame the nimble horses, 

Out of the seat will cast yourselves, and piecemeal smash the carriage ; 
Nor when ten times the Sun hath clos'd the year's revolving circle, 
Shall ye of wounds be heal'd, wherewith his thunderbolt shall score you; 
Somaystthou, Greyey'd ! shun to fight against thy proper Father. 420 
But less with Juno he in truth is angry and indignant, 
"For she, whatever be his bent, is alway wont to cross it. 
But thou! bold vixen! termagant! if truly thou adventure 
Against the might of Jupiter thy massy spear to brandish." 

So utter'd Iris swift of foot, and with the word departed. 425 
Then Juno hastily address'd a word unto Athene : 

"Offspring of segisbearing Jove! alas ! but I no longer 
Urge that we twain with Jupiter wage war in sake of mortals. 
Of them, as chance may rule, let one live, and another perish: 
But Jupiter, let him, whate'er his mind and soul may purpose 430 
For Troians and for Danai, determine, as is seemly." 

With such avowal, back she turn'd the singlehoofed horses. 
Then did the Hours unyoke for them the glossy-coated horses, 
And free from harness fasten'd them at their ambrosial mangers, 
And lean'd the chariot against the splendid-fronted building. 435 
Meanwhile themselves, the goddesses, on golden chairs were seated 
Promiscuous with other gods, but pierc'd with inward sorrow. 

But father Jove from Ida drave his smoothly-rolling carriage 
And coursers to Olympus, where the seats of gods recerv'd him. 
Then the Landshaker glorious the steeds unharness'd, placing 440 
The chariot on pedestals, and curtains spread above it. 

But on a golden throne, himself, widesighted Jove, did rest him, 
And as he press'd his feet beneath, he stagger'd great Olympus. 
There, at the side of Jupiter sat Juno and Athene 

Alone ; but no salute they spake, and no inquiry made they. 445 
But he in his own mind discern'd, and first the twain accosted : 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 14,1 

" Juno and Athene, why is thus your heart afflicted ? 
No toil, I trow, hath wearied you in man-ennobling battle 
The Troians to destroy, for whom grim bitterness ye nurture. 
Surely, so far as heart and hands intractable avail me, 450 

Not all the gods should turn me back, who dwell upon Olympus. 
But you, — your limbs illustrious were first by trembling seized, 
Before ye came in sight of war and doubtful feats of battle. 
For roundly will I speak it out, — what wo w&£ have been accomplish'd — 
Never upon your proper car, once smitten by my lightning, 455 

Back to Olympus had ye come, where dwell the gods immortal." 

He spake; thereat they mutter'd deep, both Juno and Athene: 
Close sat they,.side by side, and woes against the Troians plotted. 
Truly Athene dumb abode before her proper father, 

Tho' wounded by his argument and seiz'd with fierce displeasure. 
But Juno hid not in her breast her wrath, but thus address'd him : 

"0 son of Saturn, grim and dire, what saying hast thou blurted? 
Right well are we aware ourselves, unyielding is thy power. 
Yet for the spearman Danai we none the less have sorrow* 

Who will accomplish destiny, I ween, and vilely perish. 465 

Now from the war in truth will we hold off, as thou commandest : 
But counsel to the Argives still may we suggest, for profit ; 
Lest speedily they perish all, beneath thy sore displeasure." 

Then cloud-collecting Jupiter accosted her, responsive : 
"At morrow's dawn, if such thy will, O large-ey'd queenly Juno, 470 
Thou more than ever shalt behold the over-matching fury 
Of Saturn's offspring, wasting wide the spearman host of Argives. 
For Hector's all-oppressing force no pause shall make of battle, 
Till from his galley- side it wake the wrath of swift Pelides, 
E'en on the day, when, face to face, at galley's poop, they combat 475 
In grim inevitable strait around Patroclus fallen : 

For so doth Heaven will. — But I for thee and thy displeasure 
Take no account, — not even if the lowest seats thou visit, — 
The ends of Earth and Ocean, where Iapetus and Saturn, 
Sitting apart, have no delight from rays of sun o'ergliding 480 

Nor from the breezes, but by depths of Tartarus are girded. 
But thee and all thy moodiness I heed not, e'en if roaming 



142 THE ILIAD. [book viii. 

Thither thou venture; for than thee no worser vixen liveth." 

When thus he spake, no answer came from whitearm'd queenly Juno. — 
Then sank the brilliant light of day into the depths of Ocean, 485 

Upon the Earth's life-giving soil the gloom of night entraining. 
The Troian army lost the light unwilling ; but the Achaians 
With vows and longings, hopes and joy, the shroud of darkness welcom'd. 

Then did illustrious Hector call the Troians to assembly, 
At distance from the galleys meet, beside the river's eddies, 490 

On a clear space where open ground was seen between the corpses. 
Then they, dismounted from their cars, to that harangue did listen, 
Which Jove-beloved Hector spake : but in his hand he wielded 
A lengthy spear, which measur'd ells eleven; and before him 
Giitter'd its brazen head, whose neck a golden ring surmounted. 495 
But resting then his arm on this, he spake among the Troians : 

"Troians and Dardans and allies, unto my counsel hearken ! 
Now had I thought outright to quell the Achaians and their galleys, 
And unto windy Ilium back to return in triumph : 

Only, too soon did darkness come, which chiefly now hath rescued 500 
The Argive army, ships and all, upon the rough sea-margin. 
But verily, to dusky Night now let us yield compliance, 

And furnish out our suppers ; but the glossy-coated horses 
Unharness ye beneath the cars, and fodder cast beside them. 
But send unto the city-gates, and thence stout sheep and oxen 505 

Bring ye right speedily ; and eke heart-soothing wine procure ye 
And bread from out the public stores, and pick ye sticks in plenty, 
That we, thro' livelong night, until the early birth of morning, 
May kindle copious fire, whose blaze shall reach the vault of heaven ; 
Lest haply under screen of night the streaminghair'd Achaians 510 
Over the sea's broad-swelling backs to hasty flight betake them. 
Troth! would I not, that one of them at ease embark, unhurried, 
But that each man may carry off a gash, at home to muse on, 
Or by an arrow overhent, or by a lance-prick goaded, 

While leaping up his galley-side ; — to make all others shudder, 515 
With tear-abounding war to vex the courser-taming Troians. 
And let the heralds dear to Jove along the city publish 
To gather boys of tender age and hoary-templed elders 



book viii.] THE ILIAD. 143 

On to the towers built by gods, throughout the city searching : 

And let the women, weak of sex, each one within her chambers 520 

Kindle a brilliant light ; and let some constant guard be holden, 

Lest in the absence of the folk an ambush force the city. 

Thus be it done, as I harangue, O loftyhearted Troians ; 

Nor more of this be said, if this be sound and prudent counsel : 

Again will I at dawn address the coursertaming Troians; 525 

But, after pray'r to Jupiter and other gods immortal, 

My trust it is, hence to drive out these deadly hounds outlandish, 

Whom noisome fates have borne to us upon their dusky galleys. 

And verily, this night, must we for our own selves be watchful ; 

But, with the morning's early dawn, complete in arms accoutred, 530 

Must at the smoothly-hollow ships awaken eager Ares. 

So shall I learn, if Diomed, the stalwart son of Tydeus, 

Unto their wall will drive me back, or I with brazen weapon 

Make havoc of his life, and bear a prize of gory trophies. 

To-morrow shall to trial bring his valour, if he venture 535 

To wait my spear's arrival ; but, I trow, among the foremost 

Shall he in death be prostrate laid, and many comrades round him, 

What time to-morrow's Sun is high. For would that I so surely 

Immortal might be, and my days exempt from Eld enfeebling, 

And I such honour meet, as eke Athene and Apollo, 540 

Surely as doth the coming day bear mischief to the Argives." 

Thus Hector spake, and cheerily to him the Troians shouted. 
Then every one his sweating steeds did from the yoke unharness, 
And duly fasten'd them with thongs, each to his proper carriage, 
And sent unto the city's gates, and thence stout sheep and oxen 
Brought out right speedily, and eke heartsoothing wine procur'd they, 
And bread from out the public stores; and sticks in plenty gather'd. 
Then did they perfect hecatombs unto the immortals offer, 
And from the plain the breezes bare the steam to highth of heaven, 
Fragrant ; yet blessed gods averse no pleasant savour tasted ; 550 

For sacred Ilium by them was held in deadly hatred, 

And Priam's self and all the folk of ashen-speared Priam. 
But they with overweening thoughts along the battle's causeys 
Sat all the livelong night, and fires beside them kindled many. 



144 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

And as around the shining Moon the little stars of heaven 555 

Glister with radiance distinct, when all the sky is breathless, 
And every lofty peak is shown, and headland edge and forest, 
And from behind the cloven blue uncounted heaven bursteth, 
And all above thee seemeth Stars, and joyful is the shepherd : 
So many fires, betwixt the streams of Xanthus and the galleys, 560 
Shone then in front of Ilium, by hands of Troians kindled. 

A thousand fires along the plain, I say, that night were burning, 
And close to every glaring blaze sat fifty foes of Argos. 
And by their chariots the steeds, rye and white barley munching, 
Stood, waiting patiently the rise of gorgeous-throned Morning. 565 



BOOK IX. 

After such guise the Troians kept their watches ; but the Achaians 
Were haunted by almighty Eout, comrade of numbing Terror, 
And deep with grief unbearable were all the bravest pierced. 
As when two adverse-blowing winds the fishful ocean worry, 
If Boreas and Zephyrus, which send their blasts from Thrake, 

Rush of a sudden ; instantly do all the darkling surges 

Rise into knolls, and on the beach cast many a heap of seaweed ; 
So fitfully the heart was toss'd within the Achaian bosom. 

The son of Atreus, deep in soul, with mighty anguish pierced, 
Hither and thither pac'd, and bade the clear-intoning heralds 10 

By special call on every man to summon to assembly, 

But not by shoutings : he himself among the foremost labour'd. 

5. Boreas (the N. E. wind) blows from Thrace to an Athenian ; and the 
Greeks in general call this the Thracian wind. Zephyrus (the West) nearly 
blows from Thrace to a man in Troas. Homer seems here to have combined 
these incousistent noints of view. 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 145 

So in full gathering they sat with grief; but Agamemnon 

Up rose before them, tear-bestream'd, as some dark source of waters, 
Which down a stormcapt precipice poureth a murky torrent. 15 

So he with heavy groaning spake his word among the Argives : 

" Friends, heroes of the Danai, and ministers of Ares, 
Saturnius hath mightily in dire annoy enchain'd me ; 

Cruel, who formerly to me with word and nod assented, 

To storm wellfenced Ilium and bear away the booty. 20 

But now an evil artifice hath plotted, and doth urge me 

Argos to seek, ignoble ; sith I many lives have wasted. 

So seemeth it the will to be of Jupiter o'ermatching, 

Who hath the lofty pinnacles of many a city lower'd, 

And yet will lower ; for his sway is mightiest to mortals. 25 

But come! as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow : 
Unto our native land belov'd upon the galleys hie we ; 

For ample-streeted Ilium no longer shall we capture." 

Thus did he charge them : thereupon they all were dumb in silence. 
Dismay' d with sorrow, long were all Achaia's children speechless ; 30 
Till Diomedes, good at need, at length replied before them : 

"Firstly with thee infatuate, Atrides ! will I combat, 
As seemly is in council, Prince ! so take it not in anger. 
Lately before the Danai thou didst my might disparage, 

Saying, unapt for war was I, — shorn of my father's valour : 35 

With which the Argives, young and old alike, are well acquainted. 
Thee crooked-witted Saturn's child with half a gift hath honour'd : 
He with the sceptre gave to thee preeminence of station, 
But, what is mightiest of sway, valour, to thee he gave not. 
elf-possessed ! haply didst so deem Achaia's children 40 

15. According to the common interpretation, the former half of this line 
should stand .... "Which down a goat-abandon' d rock," i.e. abandoned even 
by goats ; which is highly unsatisfactory. Liddell and Scott betray their sus- 
picion that aigilips is connected with lips, a cliff; and if this be fundamentally 
the same word as lepas, a precipice, the p in the genitive is accounted for; On 
the other hand, that aigis as early as the Homeric period admitted the sense of 
a Storm, is a reasonable inference from the verb epaigizo. I therefore, until 
better informed, accept aigilips as a substantive, meaning strictly " a precipice 
of storms," or a Wetterhom. The word recurs, Iliad 13, 63. 

10 



146 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

Unwarlike and un valorous to be, as thou haranguest ? 

Now if for craven backward course thy proper bosom panteth, 
Hie thee away : the path is free : beside the sea thy galleys 
Stand many, which along with thee came hither from Mycenae. 
But here, I ween, will stay the rest # of streaming-hair'd Achaians, 45 
Until we pillage Troy. Or if their will be such, let them too 
Unto their native land belov'd take flight upon their galleys : 
But I and Sthenelus alone will fight, until we compass 

An end of Ilium : for, troth ! with God's approval came we." 

So spake he ; and Achaia's sons skirl'd loud in admiration 50 

At the harangue which Diomedes courser-taming utter'd. 
Then Nestor too, the charioteer, arose and spake among them : 
"O son of Tydeus, thou in war surpassingly art stalwart, 
And thou among thy equal-born in council art the wisest. 
As many as Achaians are, not one thy speech disdaineth, 55 

Nor will gainsay it : yet the word no end of deed hath pointed. 
And young thou verily art still ; to me, of all my children 
Mightest be latest-born : but yet, right sagely thou haranguest 
Unto the Argive princes ; sith discreetly hast thou spoken. 
But come,let me, who make the boast to be than thee far older, 60 

Speak out and follow up the whole of action : nor will any 
Cast on my word dishonour ; not wide-ruling Agamemnon. 
Hearthless and reckless of the right, in brotherhood unbanded, 
Is he, who loveth numbing feud amid his proper people. 
But verily to dusky night now let us yield compliance, 65 

And furnish out our suppers ; next, to watch outside the rampart 
Along the moat, let sentinels be severally chosen. 

Unto the younger men such charge address I ; but thereafter, 
Thyself, Atrides ! take the lead, as kingliest thy station. 
To banquet call the elder men, which truly thee beseemeth : 70 
'Tis not unseemly ; for thy tents of wine are full, which daily 
Is carried o'er the billows broad by Argive ships from Thrake. 
All cheer hast thou to welcome guests, who over many rulest. 
So, when on summons many meet, his counsel shalt thou follow, 
Who best adviseth thee ; and troth, great need have all the Achaians 75 
Of counsel provident and sage : for foemen near the galleys 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 147 

Burn many fires of war. To whom may such events be joyful ? 
This night will either whelm in woe the army, or will save it." 

He spake ; and they full readily did listen and obey him. 
Then fullarm'd sentinels rush'd out, who folio w'd Thrasymedes 80 

The people's shepherd, Nestor's son, and the two sons of Ares, 
Ascalaphus, Ialmenus ; and Merion beside them, 

And Aphareus and Deipyrus and godlike Lycomedes. 

These seven o'er the sentinels were leaders ; and around them 85 
To each one pac'd a hundred youths, outreaching lengthy lances. 
Inside the moat, without the wall, they went and took their stations ; 
In that mid space their fires they made, and each arrang'd his supper. 

But Atreus' son into his tent the Achaian elder chieftains 
Conducted, and before them plac'd a spirit-soothing banquet. 90 

On the good cheer before them laid the ready hand they darted. 
But when desire importunate of drink and food were ended, 

Foremost of all the aged man would weave for them devices, 
Nestor, whose counsel heretofore had eke appear'd the wisest ; 
Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd, and spake his word among them : 

C{ Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
With thee my speech will end, from thee beginneth ; sith thou reignest 
A prince to many peoples ; ay ! to thee hath Jove vouchsafed 
Sceptre and ordinance, wherewith awards to them thou makest. 
Thee then behoveth it in chief to utter words and listen, 100 

And eke to ratify, whate'er another's heart may urge him 

Wisely to speak : but every deed, begun, on thee will fasten. 
And I my counsel will avow, as best to me it seemeth : 

For, other better thoughts than these, which I within me ponder 
Alike both now and heretofore, — no man will lightly fashion : 105 
As judge I, from the day whereon in anger with Achilles 
Thou from his tent, O Jove-deriv'd! didst tear the maid Briseis, 
Not surely with applause from us ; for I in truth dissuaded 
In ample words and strong : but thou, to thy highminded passion 
Yielding, against a lofty chief whom e'en the immortals honour'd, 
Dishonour wroughtest: for his prize despoil'd hast thou, and holdest. 
But let us even now take thought, if haply by persuasion 
Of gentle words and pleasant gifts we yet may soothe and win him." 



148 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

Him Agamemnon, prince of men, address'd with words responsive : 
" aged friend, not falsely thou my follies hast recounted. 115 

My frenesy, myself confess. In place of many peoples 

That man may count, whom Jupiter in heart doth dearly cherish ; 
As, him to honour, now hath he beat down the Achaian people. 
But though infatuate I was, by mournful impulse carried, 

Again to win him, fain were I, and pay him countless ransom ;12Q 
And splendid gifts will I rehearse before your common presence. — 
Of gold ten talents duly weigh'd, and twenty burnish'd cauldrons, 
And seven tripods new to fire, and twelve prize-bearing racers. 
Not poor in precious gold were one, nor bootyless, possessing 125 

What these tight, single-hoofed steeds have won for me as prizes. 
And seven women will I give, with blameless work acquainted, 
Born Lesbians, whom when myself wellbuilded Lesbos captur'd, 
I did pick out ; whose beauty far surpass'd the tribes of women. 130 
These will I give, and with them^??*, of whom I then depriv'd.him, 
Daughter of Briseus : and besides, a mighty oath I proffer, 
That never did I touch her bed with tenderness and passion, 
As is esteem'd the ordinance to man and woman sacred. 

So much shall all presented be at once ; but if hereafter 135 

Our host by heaven's favour rieve the mighty town of Priam, 
With gold and brass abundantly then let him lade a galley 
From all the Achaian booty, ere we make awards to any. 
And let him take the choice himself of twenty Troian women, 
Who after Argive Helen seem preeminent of beauty. 140 

But if we reach Achaian Argos, udder-soil, — I offer 
Wedlock to him and royal state, as equal to Orestes, 
Who in abundant daintiness is rear'd, my tender offspring. 

Within my palace tightly built three maiden daughters have I, 
Chrysothemis, Laodike, and last, Iphianassa. 145 

Of these, whoso is dear to him, let him without redemption 
Lead her to Peleus' house ; but I will add a honey'd portion, 
Such dower-gifts, as never yet gave any with his daughter. 
Of thickly-peopled fortress-towns with seven will I grace him, 
Kardamyle and Enope and Pherse, heav'nly country, 150 

Ire, the land of grassy hills, Antheia deep of meadow, 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 149 

The vineclad slopes of Pedasus, and beautiful Aipeia. 

All these at distance short behold the sea of sandy Pylos, 

And yeomen stout within them dwell, in rams and oxen wealthy, 

Who him with tributary gifts, like to a god, shall honour, 155 

And ordinances fat and fair shall pay beneath his sceptre. 

Such things will I make good to him, when he from anger changeth. 

Then yield he should. Troth, Aides is ruthless and unyielding, 

But therefore eke of all the gods most hateful he to mortals. 

Let this man homage pay to me, for-that I am more kingly, 160 

And forasmuch as I by birth may boast to be the elder." 

Hereat to him the charioteer, Gerenian Nestor, answer'd : 
"0 Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
Gifts unrebukable dost now to prince Achilles offer. 

But come ! a special embassy select we, and exhort them, 165 
That speedily they seek the tent of Achileus Pelides : 
Or else, myself will name the men ; and let them yield approval. 
Let Phoenix, dear to Jupiter, be in this errand foremost ; 

With him let mighty Ajax go, and last, divine Ulysses, 
And in their train, Eurybates and Hodius, as heralds. 170 

But now, bring water for the hands ; proclaim well-omen'd silence, 
That we to Saturn's child may pray, if haply he will pity." 

When thus he spake, to all of them a pleasing word he utter'd : 
And first upon the princes' hands the heralds sprinkled water. 
Thereat the youths to many a bowl crown'd the high-mantling garland* 
And after fit initial cups mov'd round to all in order. 

So when libations they had made, they drank as pleasure prompted, 
And from the tent of Atreus' son the ambassy proceeded. 
But many a charge the charioteer, Gerenian Nestor, gave them, 
With wink and gesture unto each, but chiefly to Ulysses, 180 

That with all effort they appease the spotless son of Peleus. 

Then went the twain along the strand of the muchbrawling water, 
And many a prayer to the god Land-shaking Earth-encircling 
Made they, to win JEacides and soothe his haughty spirit : 

182, 192. The twain can hardly mean the two heralds : 196-8 indicate that 
Ulysses and Ajax are intended. The ignoring of Phoenix in this passage may 
seem to be a mark of patchwork which the poet never reduced to harmony. 



150 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

So pac'd they to the Myrmidons, and reach'd their tents and galleys. 
Him with the tender harp they found his moody soul beguiling. 
Fair was the harp, with silver bar, fine-wrought; which, when he ravag'd 
The city of Eetion, he from the spoil selected : 

With this he did his heart amuse, singing the praise of heroes. 
Alone in presence of the chief Patroclus sat in silence, 190 

Waiting until iEacides might have his fill of singing. 

Then forward stept the twain, and first advanc'd divine Ulysses, 
And stood before him. Starting up in quick surprize Achilles 
Quitted the seat whereon he sat, and, harp in hand, receiv'd them. 
So likewise stood Patroclus up, soon as he saw them coming. 195 
Thereat Achilles, fleet of foot, the twain with welcome greeted : 

"Hail! friendly pair ! great need, I ween, hath hither brought the heroes, 
Who unto me, though sore displeas'd, are dearest of the Achaians." 

Divine Achilles, speaking thus, the men conducted onward, 
And upon chairs repos'd their limbs, their feet on purple carpets, 200 
And to Patroclus, standing by, forthwith a word he utter'd : 

" Son of Menoetius, I pray, a greater bowl bring hither, 
And stronger mix the wine, and quick a cup for each man furnish. 
For now within my chamber sit men who to me are dearest." 

So did he charge: Patroclus then obey'd his dear companion. 205 
Before the blazing fire he plac'd a spacious tray, well laden 
With chine of sheep, fat chine of goat, and chine of oily porker. 
Automedon the pieces held, divine Achilles slic'd them, 

The rest he slash'd in smaller bits and spitted every morsel : 210 

Meanwhile Patroclus, godlike man, the fire to fury kindled. 
But when its noisome force was spent, and all the flame was faded, 
He spread the glowing embers out, and stretch'd the spits above them, 
Uplifted on their own supports : then sacred salt he sprinkled. 
When all was roasted well and dish'd, Petroclus serv'd the table 215 
With bread from baskets fair: the meat, Achilles' hand apportion'd. 
Himself a seat did occupy anent divine Ulysses 

Close to the chamber's adverse side; and bade his dear Patroclus 
Honour the gods : compliant he cast in the flames a firstfruit. 220 
On the good cheer before them laid the ready hand they darted. 
But when desire importunate of drink and food were ended, 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 151 

Ajax to Phoenix nodded. This, divine Ulysses notic'd, 
And, with his goblet filTd anew, spake greeting to Achilles : 

"All hail, Achilles 1 lack is none of wellproportioned banquet, 225 
Nor otherwhile within the tent of royal Agamemnon, 
Nor now with thee; but here are laid heartsoothing viands many, 
For banquet. Yet no care have we of banquet's sweet engagement ; 
But,0 Jove-nurtur'd ! deadly woe doth verily confront us 
And strike with terror. Doubt there is of rescue or destruction 230 
For all our galleys tightlyplank'd, unless thou don thy valour. 
For nigh unto our wall and ships the loftyhearted Troians 
With Dardans and far-call'd allies, their nightly beds have planted ; 
And many watchfires kindle they along their host, and reckon 
No more to be withheld, but rush and gain the dusky galleys. 235 
To them doth Jove Saturnius, tokens of favour showing, 
Lighten : and Hector, vaunting high, with grim delight of prowess, 
Is marvellous in frenesy, possest by raving fury, 

Beckless alike of men and gods ; on Jupiter reliant. 
Now prayeth he that Dawn divine may quickly beam from heaven. 240 
For 'tis his vow to chop away our prows' extreme adornments, 
And in the scorching flame to wrap the galleys ; and to ravage, 
All scar'd and blinded by the smoke, the Achaian crowd beside them. 
Now grimly in my soul I dread, lest that the gods accomplish 
These threats of his, and Fate for us may haply have appointed 245 

To perish here in Troy, afar from courserfeeding Argos. 

But up! prince! if still, tho' late, thy heart is bent to rescue 
Achaia's children, sore opprest beneath the Troian riot. 
Thyself wilt afterward have grief, and when the ill prevaileth, 
No remedy may then be found : but earlier bethink thee 250 

How from the Argives mayest thou ward off the day of evil. 
gentle heart ! thee verily thy father Peleus warned, 

Upon the day, when he from Phthia sent thee to Atrides : — 
'Prowess and strength, my child! on thee, if Juno and Athene 
So choose, will they bestow; but thou, thy lofty minded passion 255 
Within thy bosom strongly check ; for friendliness is better. 
From mischief-plotting rivalries desist ; and so the Argives, 
Aged and young alike, the more shall visit thee with honour.' — 



152 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

Such charges did the aged man enjoin ; but thou forgettest. 

Still, even now, thy rancour stay : be sooth'd ; and Agamemnon 260 

Eight worthy presents offereth, if thou from anger turn thee. 

Then come, do thou give ear to me, while I rehearse in order 

What gifts of friendship from his tents king Agamemnon sendeth. 

Of gold ten talents duly weigh'd, and twenty burnish'd cauldrons, 

And seven tripods new to fire, and twelve prize-bearing racers. 265 

Not poor in precious gold were one, nor booty less, possessing 

What those tight steeds of Atreus' son have won for him as prizes, 

And seven women will he give, with blameless work acquainted,270 

Born Lesbians, whom, when himself wellbuilded Lesbos captur'd, 

He did pick out, whose beauty far surpass'd the tribes of women. 

These will he give; and with them her, of whom he then depriv'd thee, 

Daughter of Briseus : and beside, a mighty oath he proffers, 

That never did he touch her bed with tenderness and passion, 275 

As is the ordinance, prince ! to man and woman sacred. 

So much shall all presented be at once : but if hereafter 

Our host by heaven's favour rieve the mighty town of Priam, 

With gold and brass abundantly then do thou lade a galley 

From all the Achaian booty, ere we make awards to any. 280 

And do thou take the choice thyself of twenty Troian women, 

Who after Argive Helen seem preeminent of beauty. 

But if we reach Achaian Argos, udder-soil, — he offers 

Wedlock to thee and royal state, as equal to Orestes, 

Who in abundant daintiness is rear'd, his tender offspring. 285 

Within the palace tightly built three maiden daughters hath he, 

Chrysothemis, Laodike, and last, Iphianassa. 

Of these, whoso is dear to thee, do thou without redemption 

Lead her to Peleus' house : but he will add a honey'd portion, 

Such dower-gifts, as never yet gave any with his daughter. 290 

Of thickly-peopled fortress-towns with seven will he grace thee, 

Kardamyle and Enope and Pherse, heav'nly country, 

Ire, the land of grassy hills, Antheia, deep of meadow, 

The vineclad slopes of Pedasus, and beautiful Aipeia. 

All these at distance short behold the sea of sandy Pylos, 295 

And yeomen stout within them dwell, in rams and oxen wealthy, 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 153 

Who thee with tributary gifts, like to a god, shall honour, 
And ordinances fat and fair shall pay beneath thy sceptre. 

Such things will he make good to thee, when thou from anger changest. 
But if from bottom of thy heart thou hatest Agamemnon, 300 

Him and his gifts, yet pity thou the host of Panachaia, 
Us, who are perishing ; who thee, e'en as a god, will honour. 
Truly thou wouldest in our heart surpassing glory conquer. 
Now, Hector mightest thou o'erhend; sith, fill'd with deadly raving, 
Full near would he to thee advance; for, none his peer he deemeth 305 
Of Danai', who hither came on even-balanc'd galleys." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd in words responsive : 
" Oh Jove-deriv'd, Laertes' son, Ulysses much-contriving, 
The word which in my heart I hold and shall be fact accomplish'd, 
This with unflinching hardihood it liketh me to utter, 310 

To stay you, each on other hand, from whimpering beside me. 
For like the gates of Aides that man to me is hateful, 

Who one thing hideth in his mind and uttereth another. 
But I my argument will speak, as best to me it seemeth. 
Neither (as I opine), himself Atrides Agamemnon, 315 

Nor other chief of Danai, will me persuade ; for thankless 

The toil is found, unceasingly to fight with foemen alway. 
like portion hath the stay-at-home, as though he bravely battled, 
And equal honour is assign'd to cowards and to heroes. 

Dieth alike the lazy man, and he who much hath labour'd,320 

Nor aught of vantage do I win that hardiment I suffer, 
And alway jeopardize my life in perilous encounter. 

But as the parent bird doth bear unto her unfledg'd nestlings 
Morsels of meat, whate'er she seize, and her own welfare slighteth, 
So likewise many a sleepless night and bloody day of combat, 325 
Your consorts to regain, have I in war of men accomplish'd. 
On foot, eleven towns (I say) I riev'd in loamy Troas, 

And with my galleys pillag'd twelve of city-dwelling peoples ; 
From all of which I duteous pick'd noble treasures many 330 

To grace Atrides, who behind at galley-side abiding 

Eeceiv'd my booty : much he kept, and few awards assigned. 
Howbeit, when some gifts he did to kings and chiefs distribute, 



154 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

Their rights inviolate abide ; but me of all the Achaians 335 

Alone he outrag'd, ravishing the wife who pleas'd my humour, 

Let him her dalliance enjoy ; but now, what mean the Argives 

By warfare on the Troians ? why did Agamemnon hither 

This host assemble ? was it not in sake of brighthair'd Helen? 

Of all the voice-dividing race do none but sons of Atreus 340 

Cherish their wives? nay, whosoe'er is virtuous and thoughtful, 

Her who is his, doth fondly tend ; as I from inmost bosom [her, 

Lov'd^er, though purchas'd by my spear. Sith force and fraud have seiz'd 

The spoiler cannot win my will: no farther let him tempt me; 345 

But rather, with his other kings, and with thyself, Ulysses ! 

Ponder, the foeman's fire to ward from your sea-coursing galleys. 

For troth, without my aid hath he full many works accomplish'd ; 

Hath built a rampart, and in front hath drawn a moat beside it, 

Vast,broad and deep, with pointed stakes all featly palisaded. 350 

Nor can he, even so, repel the hero- slaying fury 

Of Troian Hector : yet while I beside the Achaians battled, 

Hector was rare beyond the wall with sport of martial sally, 

But only to the Sksean gates and near the beechtree ventur'd : 

There once to meet me waited he, and barely scap'd my onset. 355 

But now, sith I no pleasure take to fight with godlike Hector, 

To Jupiter and all the gods to-morrow will I offer 

Due sacrifice, and freight my ships : then, when to sea I launch them, 

Shall thou behold, — if so thy will, — or if such things concern thee, — 

Along the fishful Hellespont at early morn my galleys 360 

Sailing away, and bearing off their bands of eager rowers. 

But if fair voyage greet us from the glorious land-shaker, 

On the third day may I attain the shores of loamy Phthia, 

Where much estate abandon'd I, hither for sorrow wending. 

Now shall I all my other gear, of gold or ruddy copper 365 

Or hoary iron, hence convey, and dappergirdled women, 

And all the chattel won by me : only, my prize of beauty, 

The man who gave it, Atreus' son, wide-ruling Agamemnon, 

Outrageously hath taken back. To him report my answer 

All open, as I speak it : so shall anger seize the Achaians, 370 

If against other Danai new frauds he plot hereafter, 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 155 

Alway array'd in shamelessness. Yet, though a dog in forehead, 
Eye unto eye, my gaze to meet, I deem, he would not venture. 
No deed nor counsel will I join with him, who me defrauded 
So guiltily; so not again by words shall he delude me. 375 

Away with him in peace ; for Jove the Counsellor hath craz'd him. 
To me his gifts are foemanlike, and as a straw I count him. 
If tenfold or elevenfold of all his present substance 

He offer'd me, and more beside, so much as are the treasures 380 
Which come unto Orchomenus, or to JEgyptian Thebe, 
That hundredgated city, where in every gate are counted 
Two hundred men, who each go in with chariot and horses ; 
Where in the merchant-chambers lie stores of surpassing richness ; 
Or if so many were his gifts, as sand and dust in number; 385 

Not even so might Atreus' son my stubborn purpose vanquish, 
Before he thoroughly repay his spirit-racking outrage. 

Nor of Atrides Agamemnon wed will I the daughter ; 

Not if in beauty she compete with golden Aphrodite, 
Qr tho' her hands' accomplishment vie with greyey'd Athene, 390 

Still I accept her not : for her, let him from all the Achaians 
Another choose, more suitable, and one than me more royal. 
For if the gods have care of me and home I reach in safety, 
Peleus (I wis) himself for me a seemly mate will furnish. 
On Hellas and on Phthia dwell Achaian damsels many, 395 

Daughters of chieftains, who maintain each man his proper fortress: 
From these (I reckon), whom I please, might I select as consort. 
Much verily and oftentime my noble soul hath urg'd me, 

With a betroth'd and wedded wife, a well-beseeming partner, 
There to delight me in the wealth by aged Peleus gather'd. 400 

For, recompence for life to me is none, in all the chattel, 
Which Ilium, they say, possess'd, that thicklypeopled fortress, 
In former days, while peace was yet, ere came Achaia's children ; 
Nor in the treasures prisoned beneath the marble pavement 
Of bright Apollo, archer -prince, within his rocky Pytho. 405 

For, troth ! by foray and by raid ye get stout sheep and oxen, 
And tripods eke by purchase come, and auburn crests of horses : 
405. Pytho, afterwards called Delphi, from its new inhabitants. 



156 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

But life to summon back again, when once it pass the outwork 

Of a man's teeth, no purchase then nor martial raid hath power. 

For, Thetis of the silver foot, my goddess mother, often 410 

Warneth me, that by double fates I unto death am carried. 

If, here abiding, round the walls of Ilium I combat, 

No backward voyage waiteth me, but deathless is my glory ; 

But if I homeward sail, and reach my native land beloved, 

No noble glory waiteth me, but days of life extended 415 

Shall long endure, nor quickly shall the end of death o'ertake me, 

Tea, and to all the rest of you I do this counsel tender, 

Homeward your galley-prows to turn; sith never will ye compass 

The end of lofty Ilium : for Jupiter wide-sighted 

Holdeth his own hand over her, and hearteneth her people. 420 

But ye, at your return, address the chieftains of Achaia, 

And speak your message out : for that the duty is of elders. 

Bid them within their heart to frame some other counsel better, 

Which may theAchaian people save and smoothly hollow galleys; 

Sith this which they devis'd is vain, while I abide relentless. 425 

But in our tents let Phoenix stay and pass the night : to-morrow, 

If such his pleasure, he with us to his dear native country 

Shall voyage; but against his will, surely I will not take him." 

Thus did he answer: thereupon they all were dumb in silence, 430 
Aghast at that high utterance : so sturdily he spake it. 
After long pause, at length replied old charioteering Phoenix 
With gushing tear ; for mightily fear for the galleys mov'd him. 
" Gallant Achilles ! if return be now in truth thy purpose, 

Nor wiliest deadly fire to ward from the sharp-pointed galleys 435 
At all, since rage possesseth thee ; how then could I be parted 
From thee, dear child ? but me to thee old charioteering Peleus 
Gave on the day, where he from Phthia sent thee to Atrides. 
A child wast thou, to council new, where men achieve distinction, 440 
And rude in war all-levelling : therefore with thee he sent me, 
As one who words for thee might speak, and guide to deeds thy effort. 
So would not I from thee, dear child! be parted ; not, did Heaven 
Promise, old age from me to strip, and give me youthful vigour, 445 
Such as of yore ; what time I fled from Hellas fair with women, 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 157 

To shun the quarrel of my sire Ormenides Amyntor, 
Who, for his consort's brighthair'd maid was fill'd with rage against me ; 
A maid, for whose endearments he his proper spouse dishonour'd, 450 
My mother. She my knees embrac'd and oft with tears implor'd me 
The damsel to preoccupy and balk my aged rival. 

I heard, and wrought my mother's will. But he forthwith suspecting, 
Utter'd against me many a curse, and pray'd the awful Furies, 
That never upon knees of his might sit a darling offspring 455 

From me begotten : troth! his word the mighty gods accomplish'd, 
Both nether-swaying Jupiter and terrible Proserpine. 

Awhile I plotted in my heart with the sharp brass to slay him ; 

But some immortal stay'd my wrath, and counsell'd me to ponder 
The many luckless jibes of men and rumours of the people, 460 
If haply I a parricide were called among the Achaians. 

While bearing thus my father's wrath, the heart within my bosom 
No longer might endure to dwell pent up within his chambers. 
Then verily from every side my kinsmen and my cousins 

Encircling me, with many a pray'r detain'd me in the palace. 465 

Many stout sheep and clumsy-footed crumple-horned oxen 
Were slaughter' d for them; many hogs luxuriant in fatness, 
Huge scorching carcases, were stretch'd across the flame of Vulcan ; 
And from that aged prince's jars strong wine was teem'd in plenty. 
Nine nights they slept around me: guard in turns they kept : nor ever 
The fire went out, within the porch of the well-girded cloister 
Nor eke before my bower-doors amid the entrance-chambers. 
But when the tenth night came on me enwrapt in gloomy darkness, 
My bower's closely-fitted doors I broke, and leaping lightly 475 
Over the court-wall, pass'd my guards, — men, and domestic women. 
Then I thro' Hellas' wide domain escap'd, and came to Phthia, 
Parent of sheep and deep of loam, unto the princely Peleus, 
Who greeted me with forward love, e'en as a wealthy father 480 

Loveth his child, his tenderling, his only heir begotten. 
He made me rich, and gave to me a train of many people ; 
So among Dolopes I ruled, and dwelt in farthest Phthia, 

And lov'd thee from my inmost heart, and to this godlike stature 485 
457. " iVe^er-swaying Jupiter," *. e. Pluto. 



158 



THE ILIAD. 



[boos IX. 



Eear'd thee, divine Achilles ! for with other man thou wouldest 
Neither unto a banquet go, nor feed within the palace, 

Ere on my knees I seated thee, and gave thee tastes of dainties, 
And held to thee the winecup ; oft in infantine annoyance 490 

Didst thou the winedraught gurgle out, and wet my bosom's vesture. 
So then for thee I verily much suffer' d and much labour'd, 

Forecasting, that for me the gods no proper offspring destin'd; 
But thee, divine Achilles ! I as my own child adopted, 

If-that thou mightest ward from me unseemly force hereafter. 495 

Oh Achileus ! thy mighty soul . subdue ! nor is it rightful 

the very gods are yielding, 
in virtue, force and honour, 
are from their purpose turned 
and incense and libation, 



500 



For thee a ruthless heart to hold 
The gods, who are preeminent 
E'en they by penitence of men 
With sacrifice and pleasing vow 
When mortal man hath trespassed and made himself a sinner. 
For, Penitences damsels are by mighty Jove begotten, 

Knee-stumbling, haggard in the cheek, with eyes askance and downcast, 
Who in the track of Frenesy with sad remorse do follow. 

But Frenesy is vigorous and sound of limb ; for alway 505 

She plungeth far ahead of them, and earlier for mischief 
Man's heart doth occupy; and they but heal the wounds behind her. 
Now whoso kindly pitieth Jove's daughters near approaching, 

Him greatly do they benefit and to his prayer hearken ; 

But whoso to their word is deaf, and e'en refuseth harshly, 

go, and implore in guerdon, 
and craze him for disaster, 
unto the heav'nly damsels 
as others soothly noble, 
and more in future promise, 
in bitterness of outrage ; 
to cast away thy anger 
entirely tho' they need thee. 
But now, at once forthwith doth he give much, and more behighteth 
To give hereafter, and hath sent forth from the Achaian army 520 
Chieftains select, as ambassy ; who to thyself are dearest 
Of all the Argives : whose address and coming, make not empty. 



They unto Jove Saturnius 
That Frenesy on Mm may come 
But Achileus ! do also thou 
Pay deference, and bend thy soul, 
Did not Atrides gifts present, 
But alway nakedly persist 
No prayer I to thee would make 
And to the Argives succour bring, 



510 



515 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 159 

Before such meed of honour came, none might thy anger censure. 
So have we heard from former days the tales of mighty heroes, 
When haply some of them were mov'd by vehemence of choler, 525 

Yet noble gifts acceptance found and gentle words appeas'd them. 
Now I myself an ancient deed remember : 'tis not recent ; 
But as it was, so will I tell to you, my friends assembled. 

Around the city Calydon two war-abiding peoples, 

Guretes and iEtolians, did each the other slaughter, 530 

To guard the lovely Calydon the iEtolians were fighting, 

But the Curetes eager were with foeman's rage to waste it 

For golden-throned Artemis this mischief rous'd betwixt them, 

Wrathful, that in the orchard's lap to her no festive honours 
Had Oeneus held : and other gods on hecatombs were feasted, 535 
But to the maid of mighty Jove alone no honours paid he. 
Forgetful he or thoughtless was ; but ruinous the folly. 
For she, the arrow- scatterer, issue divine, enraged, 

Sent-in a savage white-tusk'd boar to wallow in the herbage, 
Who visited with dire annoy the orchard-grounds of Oeneus. 540 

Then many a tall and fruitful tree, with stem and branch and flower, 
Out of the soil uprooted he : but auburn Meleager, 

The son of Oeneus, slaughter'd him; from many towns collecting 
Huntsmen and hounds; for such a foe no scanty force might master, 545 
So huge was he : and many men on the sad pile he mounted. 
But she around his carcase rais'd much shouting and embroilment 
For the boar's head and shaggy hide, betwixt the keen Curetes 
And lofty soul'd Aetolians. Now while that Meleager, 550 

Belov'd of Ares, fought ; so long 'twas ill with the Curetes, 
Nor might they, many tho' they were, abide without their rampart, 
Until in Meleager's soul his mother dear, Althasa, 

Kindled a fury, such as eke in prudent hearts hath power. 555 

Then lay he by his wedded wife, the beauteous Cleopatra, 
The daughter of Euenus' child, Marpessa taper-ankled, 
Consort of Idas, who was once of men on earth the stoutest, 
Then living ; yea, and hardily against the prince Apollo, 
To save his taper-ankled bride, his archer-weapons handled. 560 
(Her thereupon within their halls her sire and queenly mother 



160 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

Alcyone by surname call'd ; because, for ever mournful, 

She, like the widow'd Alcyon in tearful fate entangled, 563 

Went wailing, when the bright Apollo snatch'd away her bridegroom.) 
So Meleager by his spouse lay indolent, digesting [guish, 

The rancour which his mother's words had stirr'd; who, stung with an- 
Eor-that her brother he had slain, spake many a curse to heaven ; 
And oft the many-feeding earth she thrash'd with hand of passion, 
Seated on knee of suppliant, (and tears bedew'd her bosom,) 

And call'd aloud on Aides and terrible Proserpine, 570 

Death to her child to give: and her from Erebus the Eury, 
Who in mid darkness stalketh, heard, implacable of spirit. 
Meanwhile from them, around the gates, as they assail'd the towers, 
Kose clang and hubbub; and to him, with humble supplication, 
The chiefest of the priests arriv'd, sent by the Aetolian elders, 575 
To pray, he would in rescue come, and promis'd mighty guerdon. 
Where'er of lovely Calydon the plain was richest deemed, 

There willed they to bid him choose a portion chief in beauty, 
Of fifty acres ; half of it in slopes with vineyards studded, 

The other half, flat open field well portioned for ploughing. 580 

And Oeneus, aged charioteer, upon the threshold stepping 

Of the high-roofed bower, came and shook the joined panels, 
Seeking to clasp his knees : but he not e'en his sire admitted. 
Yea,tho' to him his sisters too and queenly mother often 584 

Made prayer, still he more and more refus'd : and much his c6mrades 
Entreated, who of all to him were canniest and dearest : 

Nor even so persuaded they the heart within his bosom, 

Till on the chamber batterings came thick, and on the towers 
Mounted the foe, and scatter'd fire over the mighty city. 
So then at last with tears and wail his dapper-girdled consort 590 
Did Meleager supplicate, and all the woes recounted 

563. The Greek text does not admit this sense, hut runs : " Tier mother, like 
the Alcyon," which seems to me absurd. Alcyon is celebrated for grief at the 
death of her husband Ceyx, who was drowned, according to Ovid. The words 
of Homer in v. 564 leave it uncertain, whether Apollo slew Idas or carried off 
Marpessa. The common tale gives to Idas a longer life. 

567. A long tale is here glanced at. The old interpreter says that Meleager 
slew Jive brothers of his mother. 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 161 

Of captur'd towns: — 'themenarekill'd, and fire the city wasteth 
While others lead the children off, and broadly-girded women.' — 
Then was the breast within him stirr'd, to hear such deeds of evil; 595 
He hied to go, and o'er his skin he donn'd his shining armour. 
So he from the iEtolians the day of mischief warded, 

Withdrawing from his anger : yet to him no more fulfill'd they 
The many pleasant gifts, but he thankless achiev'd his labour. 
But thou, of such a mind beware; and let no prompting Spirit 600 
Turn thee to this, child belov'd ! far sorer were the combat 
To rescue galleys naming : but, while presents still are tender' d, 
Come for thy meed : then like a god the Achaians thee will honour. 
But if to hero-wasting war uncall'd and late thou hurry, 

Then,tho' thou rescue them, far less will be thy praise and guerdon."605 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd with words responsive : 
" Jo ve-nurtur'd Phoenix, aged friend! to me such praise and guerdon 
Is needless. Jove's arbitrement, I trust, with seemly honour 
Will greet me. This will hold me here, beside the crested galleys, 
While breath doth in my bosom dwell, and while my knees support me. 
This also will I say ; — and thou, within thy mind revolve it : 
Do not with wailing and with grief, to gratify the hero 
Atrides, melt my tender heart ; nor rightful do I count it 
For thee to love him ; lest by me, who love thee, thou be hated. 
Proper for thee it is, with me to vex, whoso me vexeth. 615 

Live as my peer in royalty, endow'd with half my honour. — 

Now these shall bear the message back, and thou behind abiding 
In a soft couch shalt rest ; but we, when early Dawn ariseth, 
Will ponder, whether to remain, or homeward to betake us." 

This said, unto Patroclus he with silent eyebrow nodded, 620 
A bed for Phoenix, soft and dense, to strew, that with the morning 
They from the tent might quickly plan the homeward course. Then Ajax, 
The Telamonian, match for gods, thus spake his word among them : 

"0 Jove-deriv'd! Laertes' son! Ulysses much-contriving! 
Go we: for not by this approach the purport of our errand 625 

Shall (as I deem) fulfilment find : but back we now must carry 

609. He seems to mean : " Honour forbids me to leave my ships and go to 
aid Agamemnon." 

11 



162 THE ILIAD. [book ix. 

This word unto the Danai, albeit no wise pleasant, 

Who now, I ween, wait in their seats expectant. But Achilles 

A savage haughty-hearted soul within his bosom keepeth, 

Cruel : nor is abash'd before the kindliness of comrades, 630 

Wherewith, beside the galleys, him preeminent we honour ; 

ruthless! Yea, but every man taketh a slayer's ransom, 

For son or brother kill'd ; and he who slew, with great amercement, 

Among his people doth abide; the other, sooth'd by presents, 635 

Curbeth his lofty moodiness. Now for a single damsel 

In thee the gods unceasing wrath have set : and lo ! we offer 

Seven preeminent, and much beside. But thou, appease thy spirit ; 

Revere thy own abode; for here beneath thy roof we meet thee 640 

From the full throng of Danai ; and we, of all the Achaians, 

Would alway fain abide to thee the tenderest and dearest." 

But him Achilles, swift of foot, address'd in words responsive : 
"Oh Joveborn governour of peoples, Telamonian Ajax ! 
All that thou sayest seemest thou after my mind to utter. 654 

But auger swelleth in my heart, when I his deeds remember; 
How mid the host he outrag'd me as some degraded outcast. 
But ye unto your king return and speak to him my message. 

So soon as godlike Hector, son of skilful-hearted Priam, 650 

Beacheth the tents of Myrmidons, and smouldereth the galleys, 
Slaying the Argives ; — only then will I give heed to battle. 
But, whatsoe'er his eagerness, beside my dusky galley 
And round my tent, I deem that he will make a pause of combat." 655 

He spake: then one by one they grasp'd a goblet doubly hollow 
And made libation; backward then beside the galleys hied they. 
Ulysses led in front : meanwhile Patroclus bade his comrades 
And handmaids quickly to array a dainty bed for Phoenix : 
And they obedient array'd a bed, as he commanded, 660 

W 7 ith matted rug and coverlet and flimsy down of linen. 
There did the aged man repose, awaiting heav'nly Morning. 
Achilles, he in a recess of the well-clos'd pavilion 

Slumber'd; and by his side was laid a dame, whom he from Lesbos 
Brought, — Diomede dainty-cheek'd, the daughter erst of Phorbas. 665 
Patroclus on the other side reclin'd, and eke beside him 



book ix.] THE ILIAD. 163 

Lay Ipliis dapper-girdled, whom on him divine Achilles 
Bestow'd,whenScyrus' isle he took, steep fortress of Erryeus. 

But them, when to Atrides' tents again their feet had borne them, 
Achaia's children, one by one, to each with golden goblets, 670 
Uprising, salutation made, and spake a word of question. 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, was foremost with inquiry : 
" Come say, Ulysses, rich of lore, great glory of the Achaians, 
Willeth he from the foeman's fire to screen the Argive galleys, 
Or hath refus'd, and anger still his mighty heart possesseth?" 675 

To him replied the godlike man, Ulysses much-enduring : 
" Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
In sooth he willeth not his rage to quench, but more than ever 
Is swollen with disdain ; and thee and eke thy gifts rejecteth. 
Upon thyself he layeth charge to ponder with the Argives, 680 

How mayest thou the galleys save and people of Achaians. 
But, for himself, so soon as e'er the morrow dawn, he threatens 
Into the briny flood to launch his easy-steering galleys. 
Tea, and to all the rest of us this counsel doth he tender, 

Homeward our galley-prows to turn; sith never will ye compass 685 
The end of lofty Ilium ; for Jupiter wide-sighted 

Holdeth his own hand over her, and hearteneth her people. 
Such were his words; and others here, who follow'd me, are witness, — 
Both Ajax, and the heralds twain discreet alike : but Phoenix, 
The old man, sleepeth there: for so Achilles bade. To-morrow, 690 
If such his pleasure, he with them to their dear native country 
Will voyage : but against his will Achilles will not take him." 

Thus did he answer : thereupon they all were dumb in silence, 
[Aghast at that high utterance : so sturdily he spake it.] 
Dismay'd with sorrow, long were all Achaia's children speechless, 695 
Till Diomedes, good at need, at length replied before them : 

"0 Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
Would that thou haddest never sued the spotless son of Peleus 
With offer of unbounded gifts ! He of himself is haughty, 
And now with haughtinesses new much more hast thou inflam'd him. 
But him we now may let alone, whether he choose to voyage 701 
Or here abide : in time will he to war return, whenever 



164 THE ILIAD. [book x. 

The spirit in his heart may bid, and when the god shall rouse him. 

But come; as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow : 

Take ye this night your slumber, when ye have your heart refreshed 705 

"With pleasant bread and wine; for this to weary men is vigour. 

But when the rosyfinger'd Morn hath risen fair upon us, 

Then quick and urgently let each set men and steeds in order 

Before the galleys, and himself do battle mid the foremost." 

Thus spake he: then the gather'd kings in admiration murmur'd 710 
At the harangue which Diomedes coursertaming utter'd. 
So, when libations they had made, went each to his pavilion, 
And laid their bodies to repose and took the gift of slumber. 



book x. 



.W ow all the rest by galley-side, chieftains of Pan-Achaia, 

Kept thro' the livelong night repose, by gentle sleep o'ermaster'd. 

But not Atrides Agamemnon, shepherd of the people, 

Might be in slumber sweet detain'd; but tides of thought did toss him. 

And as when brighthair'd Juno's lord thro' heaven lightning sendeth, 5 

Devising hail or piercing sleet (whensnowthe clods hath powder' d), 

Or rainy flood ineffable, or bitter-yawning battle ; 

So thickly from his bosom sobb'd the royal Agamemnon, 

Deep drawing from his heart the moan; and all his vitals trembled. 10 

When o'er the Troian plain he gaz'd, the many flames admir'd he, 

Which burnt in front of Ilium, — the sound of flutes and whistles, 

And bum of men : but when he saw the Achaian folk and galleys, 

Then many a hair with lowest roots from out his head uptare he 15 

To Jupiter aloft ; and deep his noble heart was shaken. 



book x.l THE ILIAD. 165 

J • 

But to his mind this path appear'd the best ; to go for Nestor, 
The sou of Neleus, first of men ; if-that some blameless counsel 
The twain might ponder, and from bale the Danai deliver. 20 

Upright he rais'd him, and put on around his breast the tunic, 
And underneath his supple feet he bound the comely sandals. 
But next, a fiery lion's hide he wrapt about his shoulders, 

Vast, ruddy, reaching to the heel; and took his spear beside him. 

So eke on Menelaiis came like trembling ; nor did slumber 25 

Sit on his eyelids ; terror-struck, lest aught befal the Argives, 
Who truly o'er the waters wide for vengeance of his quarrel 
To Troas' land had voyaged, audacious combat planning. 

First with a spotted panther-skin his shoulders' breadth he cover'd ; 
But next a brazen coronal upon his head adjusted, 30 

And in his broad hand grasp'd a spear; and hied to rouse his brother, 
Who mightily the Argives sway'd, and as a god was honour'd. 
But him he found, around his frame the beauteous armour fitting, 
At stern of galley ; and to him brought joy by his arrival. 35 

Then Menelaiis, good at need, his brother first accosted : 

"My gracious sir, why armest thou? dost haply urge some comrade 
To espy the Troian camp ? but I do direly fear, that no one 
This work will undertake, — alone amid the foes to venture, 40 

Peering across ambrosial night. A sturdy heart is wanted." 

To him in words reciprocal spake royal Agamemnon : 
" Jove-nurtur'd Menelas ! for thee and me is need of counsel, 
Crafty to liberate and save the Argives and their galleys. 

Eor Jove's intent is chang'd, who now on offerings of Hector 45 

Bather hath set his mind : for I neither by sight nor story 
Have known one man so rueful deeds within a day to compass, 
As Hector, dear to Jove, hath wrought upon Achaia's children, 
He a mere man, no sacred birth from god or goddess boasting. 50 
Deeds hath he done, which, I aver, shall rouse concern in Argives 
Lasting and long : such bale hath he against Achaia wreaked. 
But hie thee hence, and summon now Idomeneus and Ajax, 
Beside the galleys speeding thee ; and I to godlike Nestor 
Will go, and urge him to arise, if haply he be willing 55 

Unto the sacred watcher-band to cross, and keenly stir them. 



166 THE ILIAD. [book x. 

For none as he their ear might gain, sith as his son is leader 
To marshal them; and eke with him Idomeneus' attendant, 
Meriones. Tor upon these chief trust have we reposed." 

Then Menelaiis, good at need, accosted him responsive : 60 

" How wiliest thou that I perform this errand and injunction ? 
Am I beside the watch to stay, and wait until thou join us, 
Or hie me after thee again, when duly I have charg'd them ?" 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, reciprocal address'd him : 
"Stay on the spot, lest we perchance miss each the other, passing, 65 
Amid the gloom : for many are the paths along the army. 
And where thou goest, speak aloud, and urge them to be wakeful, 
And name the parentage of each, their line of sires recounting, 
And lavish praise on all; nor err by haughtiness of spirit, 
But let us both good service do in person. So, it seemeth, 70 

Jove with the past events on us distressful moil imposeth." 

With such address and careful charge dispatched he his brother, 
And hied himself in speed, to find Nestor, the people's shepherd. 
But him he found within his tent, beside the dusky galley, 
On a soft bed; and close to him was laid his curious armour, 75 
His shield, two spears, and shining casque with triple crest above it. 
Beside them lay his breadth of belt, all-motley; which around him 
The old man girded, whensoe'er to hero-wasting battle, 
Leading the folk, he hied ; for he enfeebling Eld resisted. 
Now on his elbow raising him, he, with the head uplifted, 80 

Address'd his speech to Atreus' son, and summon'd him with question : 

"Who lonely there beside the ships along the army paceth 
In covert of the dusky night, when other mortals slumber ? 

Say, seekest thou some mule astray, or one of thy companions ? 
Speak out, nor silent come on me, but tell, what errand brings thee." 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, to him in turn responded : 86 

" Nestor, Neleus' progeny ! great glory of the Achaians ! 
Canst Agamemnon recognize ? whom in a sea of troubles 
Beyond all mortals Jove hath plung'd, entirely and for ever, 
While breath doth in my bosom dwell, and while my knees support me. 
But thus I roam, sith on my eyes no gentle slumber sitteth ; 91 

62. The Greek is ambiguous ; but it is interpreted by v. 127. 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 167 

For, my sad heart doth ruminate Achaian war and sorrows, 
And grimly for the Danai I fear : my thoughts within me 

Steadfast no longer are, but faint, and waver : from my bosom 
My heart outleapeth, and beneath, my gallant limbs are palsied. 95 
But if thou aught of vigour hast, sith wakeful thou abidest, 
Descend we to the sentinels, to visit them, lest haply, 

Conquer'd by sleep and weariness, they yield themselves to slumber, 
The watch forgetting: close at hand sitteth the foe ; nor know we 100 
Whether perchance in shades of night he eager be to combat." 

To him thereat the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 
" Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides, 
Truly not all the purposes which Hector now deviseth, 

Will Jove the Counsellor perform ; but he, I trow, w T ill struggle 105 
With troubles more and worser, if from his disastrous anger 
Achilles change his noble heart. But thee I gladly follow ; 
And others eke will we arouse ; — the spear-renown'd Tydides, 
Ulysses and swift Ajax and the valiant son of Phyleus, 110 

And greater Ajax, match for gods, if one were free to fetch him ; 
Withal, the prince Idomeneus ; for farthest stand their galleys. 
But Menelas, all-be-that I dear and august account him, 

To thy displeasure will I chide, nor will I hide my censure, 115 
Who sleepeth, and to thee alone such busy duty leaveth. 
But now his task it were, to toil beyond all other chieftains, 
With supplication ; for distress unbearable hath reach'd us." 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, accosted him responsive: 
" My aged friend, at other times I bid thee to rebuke him; 120 

For oft in listlessness he waits and willeth not to labour, 
Not from a coward slothful heart, nor aught perverse in temper, 
But keeping still his eye on me, and my resolve awaiting. 
Now woke he earlier than me, and stood above my pillow. 
Him have I forward sent, to call the twain of whom thou askest. 125 
But go we : them I trust to meet before the fenced portals 
Among the sentinels ; for there the trysting-place assign'd I." 

To him thereat the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 
" 'Tis well : for so, on future day, none will of all the Argives 
Indignant be or disobey, when he shall charge and urge them." 



168 THE ILIAD. [book x. 

This said, the aged man put on around his breast the tunic, 
And underneath his supple feet he bound the comely sandals, 
And at his shoulder button'd he a cloak of Punic purple, 
Double, lowreaching, cover'd well with curly shag above it. 
Then did he grasp a valiant spear, pointed with brass welltemper'd,135 
And hied to go along the ships of brazen-cloak'd Achaians. 
Ulysses first he found, to Jove an equipoise in counsel, 
And with loud call arous'd him: quick the voice his heart encircled, 
And from the tent forthwith he came, and spake to them in answer : 140 

" Why lonely thus beside the ships along the army roam ye 
Mid the ambrosial night ? wherein doth need so pressing urge you?" 

To him thereat the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 
" O Jove-deriv'd, Laertes' son, Ulysses much-contriving, 
Take no offence : so fierce distress upon the Achaians presseth. 145 
But follow, while we others rouse, whom it befits to summon 
On our high council, to decide either on flight or battle." 

He spake: then, entering his tent, Ulysses much-devising 
Amuch wrought buckler slung around his breast, and mov'd behind them. 
Next went they after Diomedes, Tydeus son ; and found him 150 
Lying in arms outside his tent ; and round, his comrades slumber'd. 
Beneath their heads their bucklers lay; their spears upright were planted, 
Fix'd in the earth by upper end : the brazen gleam, as lightning 
Of father Jove, flash'd from afar : but he, their chief, was sleeping. 
Beneath his body lay a hide, torn from a bull field-roaming, 155 

But underneath his head was stretch'd a sheeny-broider'd carpet. 
Then with his foot the charioteer Gerenian Nestor stirr'd him, 
And waken'd and exhorted him, and with reproach confronted : 
"Wake, son of Tydeus! why all night dost cull the prime of slumber? 
Nor knowest that the Troians are seated near the galleys 160 
Along a swelling of the plain, and little space doth ward them ? " 

When thus accosted, from his sleep right quickly up he started, 
And straightway speaking in reply, did winged accents utter : 

"Severe art thou, my aged friend ! from toil thou never restest. 
Hath not Achaia younger sons than thee, to move patrolling 165 
And wake the princes ? aged sir ! distressful is thy vigour." 
To him in turn the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 169 

" Ay, verily, all this, my friend, discreetly hast thou spoken ; 

For, blameless children, troth! have I, and a long train of peoples, 170 

Who might patrol and summon you: but heavy need oppresseth 

The iVchaians mightily: for now upon an edge of razor 

Standeth their future, — or to live, or fall in moanful ruin. 

But come, swift Ajax rouse for us; withal, the son of Phyleus ; 175 

Sith pity for my age thou hast : for thou than me art younger." 

Hereat, a fiery lion's hide, vast, reaching to the ankle, 

Tydides round his shoulders wrapt, and took his spear beside him, 
And started on his path: and them he rous'd and quickly gather'd. 
But when amid the assembled watch at length they were arrived, 180 
Not slumbering, I wis, they found the captains of the watchers, 
But all with panoply complete in wakeful mood were seated. 
As, penn'd upon a field, the dogs around the sheep are anxious, 
Hearing some stalwart-hearted beast, who thro' the forest howleth, 
Crossing the mountains ; after him an endless riot gathers 185 

Of dogs and shepherds; all the night, their hope of sleep hath perish'd : 
So from their eyelids vanish'd then all hope of gentle slumber, 
As thro' that evil night they watch'd: for to the plain they alway 
Turn'd their regard, whene'er they deem'd the Tro'ians advancing. 
At sight of them the aged man was joyous, and, to cheer them, 190 
He spake a word enheartening. and winged accents utter'd : 

"Dear children! watch ye, diligent, as now ; and let not slumber 
Any invade ; lest we become a triumph to the foemen." 

He spake, and crossing, pass'd the moat; and after him there follow'd 
All who to council summon'd were, king-leaders of the Argives. 195 
Along with them Meriones and Nestor's brilliant offspring 

Proceeded; for the kings themselves their joint advice invited. [tion 

Then o'er the moat, which deep was dug, they cross'd, and took their sta- 
On a clear space, where open ground was seen between the corpses, 
Which fell, where Hector yester-eve set pause upon his fury, 200 

Prostrate the Argives laying, when the shades of night inclos'd him. 
Here duly seated, each to each did canny counsel open. 
To them the Pylian charioteer, Nestor, began discourses : 
"My friends! can no man then be found of Argos, who, confiding 
In his own daring soul, among the mighty-hearted Troians 205 



170 THE ILIAD. [book x. 

Would venture, if perchance he catch some foeman on the outskirt, 
Or hear among the Troians some rumour of their purpose, 

Whether their bent be, here to stay, afar, anent the galleys, 
Or to the city back to go, as victors of the Achaians. 210 

Might he such questions duly sound, and safe return among us, 
His glory would to heaven reach, and noble gifts await him. 
For upon him shall every chief, who Argive galleys swayeth, 
Bestow a black ewe, big with young, of woolly chattels peerless ; 215 
And alway shall he find a seat at public feast and banquet." 

Such was his counsel: thereupon they all were dumb in silence, 
Till Diomedes, good at need, utter'd his voice among them : 

"Nestor, my heart and noble soul doth mightily bestir me 220 

] nto the Troian foeman-host, which near us lies, to enter. 

But, with another join'd, it were more comforting and cheery. 
When two together go, the one before the other seizeth, 
How gain is won ; but, when alone, if rightly he discern it, 225 

Yet all his mind more sluggish is, and puny is his counsel." 

He spake; then many wish'd to be escort to Diomedes, 
Both the Ajaces wish'd for it, twin ministers of Ares, — 

And Merion : but greatly did the son of Nestor wish it. 

The son of Atreus wish'd for it, spear-famous Menelaus. 230 

And much Ulysses wish'd, the crowd of Troians to enter; 
For alway he in daring soul some enterprize was plotting. 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, pronounc'd his word among them : 

" Diomedes, Tydeus' son, to my regards most pleasing, 
Now mayest thou thyself select the comrade whom thou wiliest, 235 
Who of the claimants bravest is ; sith many here are eager. 
But thou no reverence of heart indulge, to lose the braver, 
Where choice is free; nor take the worse, by bashfulness persuaded, 
Looking to birth ; not even if one kinglier be offer'd." 

So spake he, inwardly afraid for auburn Menelaus. 240 

But Diomedes, good at need, again replied among them : 

" If then in truth ye lay on me myself to choose a comrade, 
Could I in such arbitrement, forget divine Ulysses, 

In who oi the heart and noble soul surpassingly is forward 
For every feat of hardiment j and maid Athene loves him ? 245 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 171 

If Tie be my escort, I ween we might return deliver'd 

Safe even out of blazing fire : so sage are his devices." 

To him the much-enduring man, divine Ulysses, answer' d : 
"0 son of Tydeus, praise me not too much, nor yet reproach me ; 
For, those who hear thee, Argives are, with me and thee acquainted. 250 
But go we ; for the night apace doth yield, and morn approacheth : 
The stars are far upon their course, and of the nightly watches 
More than two parts are gone; a third barely is left for action." 

So spake they mutual; and both assum'd their dreadful armour. 
A buckler upon Tydeus' son war-biding Thrasyrnedes 255 

Bestow'd, — and cutlass double-edg'd ; for he beside the galleys 
Had left his own: and round his head he plac'd a cap of bull-hide, 
Bidgeless and crestless; such as guards the heads of blooming callants. 
But to Ulysses Merion a bow and quiver offer'd, 260 

And sword; and plac'd around his head a helmet wrought of leather, 
With many a twisted strap within girt strongly ; but without it 
On either side in thick array a boar's white tusks were planted 

Well and right cleverly ; but felt was in the middle fitted. 265 

From Eleon, where reign'd of yore Ormenides Amyntor, 
Autolycus had stolen it, the closed chamber boring. 

It at Scandeia he bestow'd on a Kytheran hero, 

Amphidamas; from whom it pass'd as hospitable token 
To Molus : he to Merion, his proper son, bequeath' d it, 270 

For use of war: now, settled close, Ulysses' head it shelter'd. 
So then the twain, when both were busk'd complete in dreadful armour, 
Hied them to go ; and on the spot, behind them, all the bravest 
They left ; and maid Athene sent beside the road, to greet them, 
A lucky heron : mid the gloom its cry they knew, tho' nothing 275 
Saw they. Ulysses then rejoic'd, and thus besought Athene : 

"Offspring of segis-holding Jove, who alway dost beside me 
In every feat of danger stand, and all my goings knowest, 

Hearken to me, and chiefly now befriend me, Athene ! 280 

Grant us returning to arrive with glory at the galleys, 

After some deed of hardiment, which Troians long may ponder." 

Next Diomedes, good at need, did second raise his prayer : 
Bj Eke unto me, O child of Jove ! unweariable ! hearken. 



172 THE ILIAD. * [book x. 

Escort me, as of yore thou didst my father, godlike Tydeus, 285 
Escort to Thebes, when forth he went ambassador for Argos, 
And left upon Asopus' banks the brazen-cloak'd Achaians. 

Thither a gentle word did he to the Cadmeians carry ; 

Yet he on his returning path a dire achievement plotted, 

Goddess divine ! by thy support, who stoodest by, to prompt him. 
In the same fashion now, beside me willing stand, and guard me : 
And I to thee will sacrifice a broad-fac'd yearling heifer 

Untam'd ; which no man hitherto beneath the yoke hath fasten'd. 
Gold will I spread around its horns and yield it to thy honour." 

So utter'd they the word of pray 'r, and maid Athene heard them. 295 
When to the imp of mighty Jove they thus had paid their worship, 
They hied to go, as lions twain, amid the nightly darkness, 
O'er carcases and dusky gore, thro' weapons and thro' carnage. 

Eke Hector, neither yet did lie permit the haughty Troians 
To sleep; but into council thick he all the bravest summon'd, 300 
As many as of Troians were governours and leaders. 

When these together he had call'd, a canny word disclos'd he : 
" Who for a mighty guerdon now would undertake and finish 
The deed which in my mind I plan ? nor should his meed be scanty. 
For I will give the chariot and two high-crested coursers, 305 

Which are of all preeminent at yon Achaian galleys, 

On him, who hath the hardiment to earn him proper glory, 
And near the swift- careering ships to go, and make inquiry, 
Whether they guard them, as of old, or, by our hands o'ermaster'd, 310 
Among themselves they meditate a homeward flight ; and haply, 
Outwearied by direful toil, neglect the nightly watches." 

So he harangu'd them : thereupon they all were dumb in silence. — 
Among the Troians was a man, Dolon ; whose sire Eumedes 
A godlike herald was : the son was rich in gold and copper, 315 
And had in form no comeliness, tho' excellent his swiftness : 
Eive were the daughters of his sire, but he their only brother. 
Who then stood forth, and spake his word to Hector and the Troians : 

"Hector! my heart and noble soul doth mightily bestir me 
Near to the swift-careering ships to go, and make inquiry. 320 

But come, thy sceptre forward reach, and swear an oath upon it, 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 173 

That verily the chariot inwrought with brass, and coursers 

On me thou wilt bestow, which bear the spotless son of Peleus. 
But I a spy to thee will be nor vain nor short of promise : 

For thro' and thro' the army I will pass, till I arrive at 325 

The ship of Agamemnon, where (I deem) the bravest heroes 
Join the high council, to decide either on flight or battle." 

Then Hector held his sceptre forth, and sware an oath upon it: 
" Bear witness Jupiter himself loud-rumbling lord of Juno ; 
No other man of Troi'ans shall on these coursers mount him, 

But thou perpetual shalt reap delight from them and glory." 

False was the oath which thus he sware, yet him it keenly stirred. 
Quickly behind his back he slung his bending bow and quiver : 
On outer part a hoary skin of wolf he wrapt around him, 

With casque of weasel screen'd his head, and seiz'd a pointed jav'lin, 335 
And from the army hied toward the ships. But backward journey 
None was for him by Fate decreed, to bring report to Hector. 
But when the crowd of steeds and men he left, and eager sallied, 
Ulysses his approach perceiv'd, and spake to Diomedes : 340 

"Some man, ODiomedes, — hark! comes hither from the army, 
Whether the galleys to espy, or to despoil the corpses. 

But let us suffer him to pass along the plain a little, 

Then, rushing after, catch him quick: or if his feet outstrip us, 345 

Yet shipward press him with the spear, from his own folk divided." 
After such whisper and reply, they crouch 'd amid the corpses 
Beside the path ; and swiftly he, O simpleton ! ran past them. 350 
When so far onward he was gone, as in a match of ploughing 
The mules unto the oxen give : — for they by far are quicker 
In new and sinking soil to drag the heavy-framed ploughshare ; — 
Then, in pursuit, on ran the twain. He heard, and stood and listen'd ; 
For o'er his mind this fancy rush'd, that, at command of Hector, 355 
His comrades of the Tro'ians came after to recal him. 

But when within a lance's length, they reach'd, he knew the foemen, 
And plied his supple knees to flee ; and sharply did they chase him. 
As when, with jagged rows of teeth, two hounds to hunting trained 360 
Over a woody lawn pursue a fawn or hare with effort 

351. A match. The original is obscure, and the sense here assigned conjectural. 






174 THE ILIAD. [book X. 

Ever incessant ; forward scuds with shriek the tender quarry : 
So then the son of Tydeus, with Ulysses city-rieving, 
From his own folk dividing him, pursued with speed relentless. 
But when all but he had achiev'd to mingle with the watchers, 365 
In flight unto the galleys, then Athene mighty vigour 
Into Tydides breath'd, lest some of brazen-cloak'd Achaians 
Boast earlier to fling the dart, and Tie but follow second. 
Then, brandishing his weapon, cried the stalwart Diomedes : 

"Stand still, or else my javelin shall reach thee : nor, I reckon, 370 
Long time shalt thou beneath my hand escape headlong destruction." 

lie spake, and hurl'd his javelin, but miss'd the man on purpose. 
The point of its well-polish'd shaft over his better shoulder 
Glided, and fasten'd in the ground: then still he stood, and trembled, 
All pale with fear ; and in his mouth his teeth did champ and chatter.375 
Panting, the twain arriv'd and seiz'd his hands : then weeping spake he : 

"Save me alive, warriours, and take a worthy ransom. 
For in our home is brass and gold and varied forms of iron. 
Erom these my sire would speedily with boundless ransom please you, 
Soon as he learns of me alive beside the Achaian galleys." 

To him, thereat, responsive spake Ulysses much-devising : 
"Be of good cheer, nor let thy mind by thoughts of death be troubled. 
But come, explain thou this to me and faithfully declare it : 
Why from the army lonely thus toward the galleys goest 385 

In covert of the dusky night, when other mortals slumber ? 

Is it, the corpses to despoil ? or art thou sent by Hector 

As spy upon the hollow ships ? or comest thou self-bidden ?" 

Dolon replied, and while he spake, his limbs beneath him trembled: 
" By frenzied follies Hector me entic'd against my judgment, 
Who gave assent to yield to me the single-hoofed horses 
Of Peleus' lordly son, and eke the car with brass adorned ; 
And thro' the night's swift-rushing gloom he bade me to adventure, 
And to the foeman's galley-side to go, and make inquiry, 395 

Whether they guard them, as of old, or, by our hands o'ermaster'd, 
Among themselves they meditate a homeward flight, and haply, 
Outwearied by direful toil, neglect the nightly watches." 

To him with smiling glance replied Ulysses much-devising : 400 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 175 

"To mighty guerdon verily aspir'd thy daring passion. 

Hard are those steeds for mortal men to tame and guide in harness., 
To all but skilful Achileus, born of a deathless mother. 

But come, explain thou this to me, and faithfully declare it. 405 

Where, hither coming, leftest thou Hector, the people's shepherd ? 
Where is his martial armour laid? and where repose his horses? 
And of all other Troians how lie the beds and watches ? 

What are their plans ? and are they bent to stay anent the galleys, 410 
Or to the city back to go, as victors of the Achaians ?" 

Dolon, Eumedes' son, thereat reciprocal address'd him : 
" Eight faithfully will I to thee declare the things thou askest. 
With those who are high councillors Hector exchangeth counsels 415 
Far from the din of war, beside the tomb of godlike Ilus. 
As for the watches, none distinct do guard and save the army. 
For where a fire is kindled, there are men awake to watch it : 
Each guardeth other: but the allies, from many countries summon'd,420 
Slumber; for to the Troians they trust the charge of watching. 

Themselves in near vicinity nor children have nor women." 

To him in turn responded then Ulysses much-devising : 
But how ? promiscuous reclin'd with coursertaming Troians 
Slumber they? or on ground apart? distinctly this inform me." 425 
Dolon, Eumedes' son, thereat reciprocal address'd him : 
This also, which thou askest me, right faithfully I tell thee. 
Toward the sea the Leleges and Cares and Caucones, 

And Pseones with bending bows, and the divine Pelasgi. 
Thy mbre- ward lie the Lycians and haughty -hearted My si, 430 
And Mseones with horsehair-crests, and coursertaming Phryges. 
But why thus carefully of me inquire ye where they slumber ? 

For if ye eager are, the crowd of Troians to enter, 
Here lie the Thracians apart, new-come, of all the outmost. 

Bhesus, the son of Eioneus, their king, encamps among them, 

Whose steeds I saw, of all on earth the handsomest and largest, 
Whiter in hue than falling snow, and like the winds in fleetness. 
With gold and silver beauteous his chariot is fashion'd. 
With him he brings a spectacle right marvellous to gaze at, 
Gigantic armour, all of gold, which for a man and mortal 440 



176 THE ILIAD. [book x. 

Seerneth too glorious to wear ; meet only for the deathless. 
But now permit me to approach the swift- careering galleys, 
Else bind me with a ruthless bond, and here behind you leave me, 
Till ye have gone and trial made, whether I told you truly." 445 

To him with scowling glance replied the stalwart Diomedes : 
" Dolon ! no fancy of escape within thy heart indulge thou, 

Sithence our hands have grappled thee; albeit good thy tiding. 
Eor, ransom'd or escaping now, mightest thou come tomorrow 
Against the swift Achaian ships, as spy or open fighter. 450 

But if, beneath my hands laid low, thou here from life shalt vanish, 
Never wilt thou hereafter work annoy against the Argives." 

Then Dolon reach'd his spreading hand, upon the beard to stroke him, 
In guise of suppliant; but he, uprising with the cutlass, 455 

Smote him in middle of the neck and adverse tendons sever'd; 
And ere his lips as yet were still, his head with dust was mingled. 
Then off they stript the weasel-cap, and double bow and quiver, 
Wolfskin and spear; but these aloft divine Ulysses raising 460 

Unto Athene booty-driving, spake his vow and worship : 

"With these, O goddess, be thou pleas'd: for thee, of all immortals 
First, in Olympus we invoke : but once again conduct us 
Against the coursers and the beds of men arriv'd from Thrake." 

This said, upon a tamarisk he rais'd aloft and plac'd them. 465 

Then reeds collecting and the twigs of tamarisk fresh-sprouting, 
He made a token, clear to sight in gloom of night swift-rushing. 
This finish'd, onward went the twain, thro' dusky gore and weapons, 
And sudden came upon the band of men arriv'd from Thrake. 470 
And they, by toil outwearied, did slumber ; and beside them 

Upon the ground in order fair by triple row their weapons 
Brilliant were laid; and every man had coursers twain beside him. 
But Ehesus in the middle slept; and his swift chargers near him, 
Prom outmost rim of chariot with leathern straps were coupled. 

Ulysses then, first seeing him, to Diomedes beckon'd : 

" Diomedes, lo ! the man, and lo ! the snow-white coursers, 
Which Dolon, whom we slew but now, hath faithfully denoted. 

459. Double bow. So 8, 266. We have no English epithet to define the 
bow formed of two arches, which bend in reverse when unstrung. 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 177 

But come, thy stalwart might put forth. Idle to stand, befits not 

A harness'd warriour like thee : do thou untie the horses : 480 

Or else, the men shalt thou assail, and I will tend the horses." 

When thus he spake, the greyey'd maid breath'd might into Tydides. 
Prom side to side he slaughter'd them; and horrible the groaning 
Hose, as the smiting cutlass fell : red grew the earth with carnage. 
And as a lion on a flock of cattle unprotected, 485 

Or goats or sheep, doth sudden pounce with heart of desolation, 
So did the son of Tydeus then pursue the men of Thrake, 
Till twelve lay slain beneath him : but Ulysses much-devising, [pose, 
Seiz'd by the foot and backward trail'd each slaughter'd man, with pur- 
For-that the glossy-coated steeds might find an easy passage, 
Nor tremble, stepping on the dead: for new were they to slaughter. 
But when unto the king at last the son of Tydeus reached, 
From him, the thirteenth, ravish'd he the life, as honey pleasant, 495 
Gasping already : for, that night, by purpose of Athene, 
Over his head a phantom dire stood forth, — the son of Tydeus ! 
Daring Ulysses loos'd meanwhile the single-hoofed horses [string ; 
Slung them together, drove them out, and whipp'd them with his bow- 
(For from the curious car to take the shining scourge forgat he ;) 
Then with a whistle notice gave to godlike Diomedcs. 
He on some new daredevilry, staying behind, did ponder ; 

Whether to seize the chariot, which held the curious armour, 

And outward drag it by the pole, or mightily uphoist it, 505 

Or from the troop of Thracians devote more lives to slaughter. 
While all his soul with such debate did heave, meanwhile Athene 
Close standing by his side, address'd the godlike Diomedes. 

" Now meditate return, O son of mighty-hearted Tydeus, 
Unto the smoothly-hollow ships; lest scar'd thou hurry thither, 510 
If haply by some other god the Troians too be waken'd." 

When thus shewhisper'd,righthe knew the goddess'voicewhichwarn'd 
Quickly they mounted on the steeds; and with his bow Ulysses [him. 
Smack'dthem; and fleetly they approach'd the sharp Achaian galleys. 

Meantime no idle watch was kept by silver-bow'd Apollo : 515 

And soon as he with Tydeus' son beheld Athene dealing, 
With her enrag'd, he rush'd amid the crowded throng of Troians, 

12 



178 THE ILIAD. [book x. 

And rous'dfrom sleep Hippocoon, high counsellor of Thrake, 
Who Ehesus' noble kinsman was : then up from slumber starting, 519 
When empty he beheld the place, wherestood the snow-white coursers, 
And found the corpses heaving yet, with noisome carnage reeking, 
He thereupon groan'd fearfully, and call'd his dear companion. 
Soon tumult and uncounted scream rose, as the tide of Troians 
Promiscuous together rush'd, and gaz'd at deeds of horror, 

Achiev'd by men unseen, — escap'd unto the hollow galleys. 525 

But when they came returning, where they slew the spy of Hector, 
There did Ulysses, dear to Jove, arrest the coursers' gallop. 
His comrade, leaping to the ground, the gory spoils recover'd, 
And plac'd them in Ulysses's hands, and on the steed remounted. 
They flogg'd the coursers, nothing loth in flying race to speed them 530 
Unto the smoothly -hollow ships, whither their wishes hasted. 
And Nestor first the tramping heard, and urgently address'd them : 

"0 friends, who to the Argive folk are governours and leaders, 
Falsely or truly, shall I say what yet my heart persuadeth ? 

My ears do quiver with the tramp of nimble-footed horses. 535 

O heaven ! may Ulysses thus and stalwart Diomedes 

Drive sudden from the Troians the single-hoofed horses. 
Yet grimly in my heart I dread, lest-that the Argive bravest 
In some disaster tangled be beneath the Troian riot." 

Not all his word was utter'd yet, when lo ! themselves arrived. 540 
Quick to the ground dismounted they: the rest, in heart delighted, 
With the right hand saluted them and eke with honey'd speeches. 
First thereupon the charioteer Gerenian Nestor ask'd them : 

"Come say, Ulysses, rich oflore, great glory of the Achaians, 
Whence are these coursers? took ye them amid the throng of Troians? 
Or did some god fall in with you, and give them as a present ? 546 
To the sun's awful brilliancy would I compare their whiteness. 

Ever among the Troian ranks I mix ; nor wont to tarry 

Beside the galleys, troth, am I, albeit old for fighting : 
Yet coursers, such as these, not yet with eye nor fancy saw I, 550 

But rather ween I that some god hath met you and bestow'd them. 
For cloud-collecting Jupiter to both of you hath favour, 

xYnd eke Athene, maiden-imp of Jove the segisholder." 



book x.] THE ILIAD. 179 

To him in turn responsive spake Ulysses much-devising : 
" Nestor, Neleus' progeny, great glory of the Achaians, 555 

A god, who will'd it, easily might honour us with presents 

Of coursers nobler far than these ; for greatly are they higher. 
Howbeit, aged friend, in sooth, the steeds, of which thou askest, 
Are Thracian and newly come; and gallant Diomedes 559 

Slaughter'd their lord, and by his side twelve comrades, all his bravest. 
A thirteenth man, whose spoils are here, we captur'd near the galleys, 
Whom, to espy our camp, and sound our strength and courage, Hector 
And other lordly Tro'ians sent forward from their army." 

This said, across the moat he urg'd the singlehoofed horses, 
Highglorying ; along with him the others went, delighted. 565 
When at the tightly joined tent of Tydeus' son arriv'd they, 
With wellcut thongs they fastened the horses to the manger, 
Where, eating honey-pleasant wheat, stood Diomedes' horses. 
And on the poop Ulysses hung the gory spoils of Dolon, 570 

High on his ship, to furnish out a trophy for Athene. 
Themselves, descending on the beach, into the waters waded, 
Erom feet below, to neck above, the cleansing power courting, [bers, 
But when the tossing wave had wash'd much sweat from off their mem- 
And had their hearts refresh'd, they stept into the baths wellpolish'd.575 
After their bodies thus were bath'd, and with fat oil anointed, 
So sat they to the morning-meal, and to Athene's honour 
Tilted the honey-pleasant wine, out of the full bowl teeming. 



180 



BOOK XI. 

A he Queen of Morning from the bed of glorious Tithonus 

Uprose, to carry light to men and eke to gods immortal. 

But to the sharp Achaian ships from Jove came Quarrel darting, 

Noisome, who bare within her hands battle's portentous ensign: 

And on Ulysses' galley black she stood; which midmost couched, 5 

Huge like to some leviathan, to shout both ways adapted, 

Alike toward the tented camp of Telamonian Ajax 

And to Achilles' bands, which haul'd their evenbalanc'd galleys 

Last on the strand, on bravery and stubborn strength reliant. 

There did the goddess station her and shouted sharp and dreadful 10 

With voice highlifted, and infus'd to each Achaian bosom 

Vigour immense, unceasingly to toil in war and combat. 

And sweeter suddenly became the battle, than the voyage 

Unto their native land belov'd on smoothly-hollow galleys. 

The son of Atreus, shouting, bade the Argive host to gird them 15 
For battle : mid them he himself in dazzling brass equipp'd him. 
First on his shins the dapper greaves, with silver anklets clever, 
Hefasten'd; next, to guard his chest, enwrapt him in a corslet, 
Which erst from Cinyras he gat as hospitable token, 20 

What time the mighty rumour reach'd to Cyprus, that the Argives 
Would shortly on their galleys sail against the land of Troas. 
Therefore on him bestow'd he it, to gratify the monarch. 
Ten stripes of blue and dusky steel ran o'er its polish'd surface ; 
Its stripes of gold were six and six, but those of tin were twenty. 25 
On either side toward the neck three blue resplendent serpents 
Did arch their throats; to rainbows like, which on the cloudy heaven 
Saturnius may plant, a sign to voice-dividing mortals. 

Then slung he round his neck the sword, with golden studs all-brilliant, 
And guarded in a silver sheath, which hung on golden braces. 31 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 181 

Above, he took his muchwrought shield, man-hiding, fit for sally, 

Bound which ten brazen circles ran. On the fair front in centre, 

Mid twenty bosses of white tin, one of blue steel protruded. 35 

Upon it Gorgon horrid-ey'd was carv'd along the border, 

With dreadful glances ; and around sat Might and Consternation. 

The strap with silver was encas'd : o'er it an azure serpent 

Was twin'd with three out-gazing heads, forth from one neck proceeding. 

But on his head a four-plum'd casque with double ridge he settled, 41 

Bushy with horsetail : dreadfully the crest above it nodded. 

A pair of valiant spears he grasp'd, with copper tipp'd and sharpen'd, 

And from them shone the yellow gleam afar into the heaven, 

From Juno and Athene then a thunder- clap forth rumbled, 45 

In honor to the stately king of gold-endow'd Mycenae. 

So to his proper charioteer each chief gave urgent bidding, 

There on the moat in order due to bridle-in the horses : 
But they themselves on foot, with arms and panoply accoutred, 
Stream'd wildly; and from early dawn incessant rose the clamour. 50 
Before the charioteers they reach'd the moat, all fitly marshall'd. 
Nor long the charioteers behind were left : but Saturn's offspring 
Amid them evil tumult rous'd, and from the lofty heaven 
Sent mistiness of gory dew ; sith that he now was minded, 

Forward to fling to Aides full many a gallant spirit. 55 

Along a swelling of the plain, on other side, the Troians 
Stood round the mighty Hector and Polydamas the spotless, 
And round iEneias, whom the folk, e'en as a god, did honour ; 
With these, Antenor's children three; brave Poly bus, Agenor, 
And youthful Acamas, who bare the form of an immortal. 60 

But Hector held in front his shield, which equal was on all sides. 
And as a deadly star is seen, from out the clouds emerging, 

Allradiant, and then again in cloudy darkness sinketh ; 

So at one moment Hector did among the foremost show him, 
Among the rearmost otherwhile, to chide them ; and as lightning 65 
From Jove the segisholding sire, he flash'd with brass all over. 

As when some wealthy husbandman in months of wheat and barley 
Placeth his reapers on the field, one to another adverse ; 
There quickly many a row they cut, and thick the swathes lie prostrate : 



182 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

So Troians and Achaians then, one on the other leaping, 70 

Made havoc, nor did either side take thought of deadly terror, 

But raging darted on, like wolves, and equal in the struggle 

Both held their crests; and Quarrel dire look'd down, and was delighted. 

Tor She was with the combatants, alone of the immortals : 

No other gods were in the throng, but all were sitting quiet 75 

Each in his proper chambers, where for every one were builded 

Illustrious abodes, within the valleys of Olympus. 

On Saturn's gloomy- clouded child they all did cast reproaches, 

Eor-that upon the Troians he will'd to lavish glory. 

Nor car'd the Father for their wrath; but, with himself secluded, 80 

Apart from all the other gods, sat glorying in grandeur, 

Gazing upon Achaia's ships, and on the Troian city, 

And on the flash of brazen arms, the victors and the vanquished. 

While that the morning lasted still and sacred day was waxing, 
So long from either side the darts did fly, and people perish : 85 

But at what hour the woodman takes, in thickets of a mountain, 
His midday meal, when as his hands, felling tall trees, are weary ; 
Glutted with toil, his soul by love of pleasant food is captur'd : 
At this same hour the Danai burst thro' the bands by valour, 90 

Urging their comrades, rank by rank : and foremost Agamemnon 
Forth sallying, a hero slew, a shepherd of the people, 

Bianor ; next, his comrade too, Oileus courser-smiting. 
Oileus from his chariot leapt down, and stood to meet him: 

But he with pointed javelin smote straight upon his forehead; 95 

Nor might the helmet's rim resist, heavy with brass ; but thro' it. 
Mid bone and brain the weapon splash'd, and quell'd his eager hurry. 
But Agamemnon, prince of men, there both of them abandon'd, 
With naked breasts all glistening, sith he had stript their armour. 100 

But off he sped with deadly force at Antiphus and Isus, 
Two sons of Priam, noble one, one born of meaner mother, 
Both in a single chariot : the charioteer was Isus ; 

But glorious Antiphus the spear did wield : both these Achilles 
Once at the foot of Ida caught tending the sheep of Priam, 105 
Bound them with tender withy -bands, but set them free for ransom. 
Then widely ruling Atreus' son, the hero Agamemnon, 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 183 

Hit with his spear upon the chest the one, above the bosom ; 
But with his sword, beside the ear smote Antiphus and cast him 
Down from the car : then hurrying he stript their beauteous armour.,110 
Knowing them ; sith he saw them both beside the pointed galleys, 
What time Achilles, fleet of foot, of yore from Ida brought them. 
And as a lion, springing light upon the helpless children 
Of a swift hind, doth easily betwixt his strong teeth crunch them, 

Coming within their lair, and quick their tender spirit rieveths 115 

And she, tho' near, no aid can give; for trembling dire doth seize her ; 
But at the stalwart beast's attack she rusheth panting, sweating, 
By frantic fear o'ermastered, thro' tangled brake and forest : 

So then of all the Troians not one might ward destruction 120 

From these; but eke the rest were scar'd nor dar'd to meet the Argives. 

Then royal Agamemnon met two war-abiding heroes, 
Sons of a skilfulhearted sire, Antimachus ; who chiefly 

Forbade to render Helen back to auburn Menelaus ; 
For brilliant gifts had he receiv'd, of gold, from Alexander. 125 

Peisander and Hippolochus, his sons, together driving, 

Both in a single chariot, the mighty king encounter'd. 

A sudden tremor palsied them : they dropp'd the glossy bridles 
Out of their hands: but Atreus' son, resistless as a lion, 
Eose opposite : then from the car they suppliantly pleaded : 130 

" Save us alive, O Atreus' son ! and take a worthy ransom : 
For with Antimachus at home are large possessions treasur'd, 
Many and costly ; brass and gold and varied forms of iron : 
From these our sire would speedily with boundless ransom please thee, 
Soon as he learns of us alive beside the Achaian galleys." 135 

So did the Troian brothers twain weeping accost the monarch 
With words of rueful gentleness ; but ruthlessly he answer'd : 

"In troth ! if ye for father have Antimachus the crafty, 
Who once, when Menelaus came with the divine Ulysses 
On ambassy, did straight advise in council of the Troians 140 

To kill them then and there, nor grant a safe return to heralds ; 
Now shall ye suitably repay your sire's unseemly outrage. " 

He spake, and from the chariot struck to the ground Peisander, 
Pierc'd in his bosom by the spear : so lay he, gazing upward. 



184 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

But from the car Hippolochus leapt down : him too he slaughter'd, 
Chopt off the hands he rais'd to pray, and gash'd his neck asunder, 
And, like a pillar, sent his trunk to roll amid the tumult. 
These then he left; but he, where'er the bands were thickest justled, 
There sallied in, and eke the rest of dapper-greav'd Achaians. 
By footmen were the footmen slain, when these to flight were driven; 150 
By charioteers the charioteers ; and from the plain beneath them 
Thick rose the dust, which thundering the feet of horses trampled, 
While fierce the foeman's blade was plied : but royal Agamemnon, 
Incessant slaying, press'd them close, still cheering-on the Argives. 
As when a fire may baleful fall on a welltimber'd forest, 155 

In massy flakes on every side the curling wind doth bear it, 

And, branch and root, down fall the trees beneath its burning fury, 
So fell in dust beneath the might of royal Agamemnon 
The heads of Troians fugitive ; and many highneck'd coursers 
Rattled their empty chariots along the battle's causeys, 160 

Missing their spotless charioteers ; who on the earth lay prostrate, 
To vultures a far dearer sight, than to their tender consorts. 
But Hector was by Jove withdrawn and screen'd from battle's terror, 
From dust, from carnage and from gore, from hail of darts and turmoil. 

But Atreus' son right urgently pursued, and cheer'd the Argives. 
Where standeth a wild fig tree, near the tomb of ancient Ilus, 166 

Offspring of Dardanus, the foe across the plain was streaming, 
Eager to reach the city-gate : yet still did Agamemnon 

Chase ; and his hands intractable with carnage were bespatter'd. 
But when the fleeing Troians reach'd the Sksean gates and beech tree, 
There rallying they form'd a band, and waited one for other. 171 

Yet others still amid the plain, like frighten'd kine, were scatter'd, 
If a whole herd be haply scar'd by presence of a lion, 
Who, in the dusk of night, on one headlong destruction bringeth; 
By his huge weight and stalwart teeth its neck at once is broken ; 175 
He rends the victim, laps the blood, and heart and bowels gorgeth : 
So were they chas'd by Atreus' son, wide-ruling Agamemnon, 
Who alway slew the hindmost man, and scar'd the rest before him. 
And many from their chariots on face or back lay prostrate 
By his attack : for direful was the fury of his weapon. 180 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 185 

But when at length his feet would soon beneath the city's circuit 
And lofty wall have borne him, then the Sire of gods and mortals 
Descending from Olympus' highth to streamy Ida's summits 
Assura'd his royal seat, and held within his hands the lightning ; 
Then spake his summons and command to goldenwinged Iris : 185 

"Hie, hurry, speedy Iris ! bear to Hector this injunction. — 
While he amid the foremost foes shall see the people's shepherd, 
The son of Atreus, raging fierce, the ranks of heroes wasting ; 
So long let him from fight withdraw, but bid the other people 
Against the foemen to contend amid the hardy struggle. 190 

But if a spear-thrust wound the king, or if an arrow reach him, 
And he upon his car shall leap ; then puissance I to Hector 
Vouchsafe, to slay the foe, until he reach the welldeck'd galleys, 
When in the west the Sun shall sink and yield to sacred darkness." 

He spake; nor disobedient was stormy-footed Iris, 195 

But down to sacred Ilium she sped from highths of Ida. 

There found she godlike Hector, son of skilfulhearted Priam, 
Standing among the horses and the chariots welljoined. 
Then Iris swift of foot drew near, and stood, and spake her message. 

"0 Hector, Priam's son, to Jove an equipoise in counsel ! 200 

Sire Jupiter hath sent me forth, to thee this word to carry. 
While thou amid the foremost foes shalt see the people's shepherd, 
The son of Atreus, raging fierce, the ranks of heroes wasting, 
So long do thou from fight withdraw, but bid the other people 
Against the foemen to contend amid the hardy struggle. 205 

But if a spear-thrust wound the king, or if an arrow reach him, 
And he upon his car shall leap ; then Jove to thee doth puissance 
Vouchsafe, to slay the foe, until thou reach the welldeck'd galleys, 
When in the west the Sun shall sink, and yield to sacred darkness." 

So utter'd Iris swift of foot, and with the word departed. 210 
Then Hector from his chariot leapt to the ground in armour. 
Two pointed jav'lins brandishing, thro' all the army went he, 
Enheartening his men, and rous'd the deadly cry of battle. 
Then did they gather to a ball, and stood against the Achaians. 
The Argives on the other side strengthen'd their close battalions : 
So in new fight confronted stood the hosts : but Agamemnon 216 



186 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Was first to sally, bent to shine as champion and leader. 

Utter for me, ye Muses, now, who dwell in high Olympus, 
Who of the adverse army first confronted Agamemnon, 
Or of the illustrious allies, or of themselves the Troians. 220 

Iphidamas, Antenor's son, a man both tall aud comely, 

Who upon Thrake's loamy soil, parent of sheep, was nurtur'd. 
Kisseus, the Thracian prince, — the sire of daintycheek'd Theano, 
His mother, — in the palaces did nurture him when little. 

When with advancing years, he reach' d the term of glorious manhood, 
Still would the king detain him there, and tendered his daughter. 226 
So from the bridal chamber he, at rumour of the Achaians, 
Arriv'd with crested galleys twelve, which sail'd beneath his guidance. 
But in Percota left he then the even-balanc'd galleys, 

And came on foot to Ilium, the city of his father. 230 

This was the man, who foremost now confronted Agamemnon. 
When they to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 
The son of Atreus miss'd his mark, the weapon sideway glancing : 
On other side Iphidamas beneath the corslet reach' d him, 

Upon the girdle, rushing close, and thrust with weighty effort. 235 
Yet did the girdle's motley work resist him ; for the weapon, 
Like lead, was blunted in the shock, nor might traverse the silver. 
Wide-ruling Agamemnon then, with lion-fury grasping 
The spear-shaft, tugg'd it to himself: so from his hand he pluck'd it; 
Then with the sword he smote his neck, and cast his body helpless. 240 
So, pitiable, fell he there, and slept a brazen slumber, 

For succour to his citizens ; far from his wedded consort, 

His first-belov'd, his beautiful, scarce known, and clearly purchas'd. 
For her a hundred kine he gave at once ; and eke behote he 
Further,a thousand goats and sheep, which countless cropp'd his pastures. 
Then did Atrides, stooping low, despoil the lifeless body, 246 

And to the Achaian troop retir'd, bearing the beauteous armour. 
But when Antenor's eldest son, Coon, of heroes signal, 
Discern' d his brother's fall, his eyes were veil'd with piercing sorrow. 
With sideway spearthrust came he on, by godlike Agamemnon 251 
Unseen, and smote him in the arm, beneath the bend of elbow : 
Eight thro' the flesh he pierc'd, until the point beyond it glitter'd. 



book xl] THE ILIAD. 187 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, with sudden anguish shudder'd, 

Yet, even so, desisted not from fight and war, but sallied, 255 

With spear-shaft nourish' d in the winds, for close attack on Coon. 

He by the foot was dragging off Iphidamas his brother, 

His father's son, right eagerly ; to all the bravest shouting : 

But with the brazenheaded pike, beneath his bossy buckler, 

The monarch reach'dhim, as he stoop'd, and cast his body helpless, 260 

And there beside Iphidamas the brother's corpse beheaded. 

So then Antenor's offspring twain beneath the king Atrides 

Fill'd up their destiny of life and sank to Pluto's dwelling, [he, 

Now while his blood from out the gash well'd fresh and warm, assail' d 
With spear and sword and mighty stones the ranks of other heroes. 265 
But when the wound was dry and stiff, and all the blood was clotted, 
Then thro' the frame of Atreus's son sank pangs of thrilling anguish. 
As when the lancing throe assails a woman in her travail, 
Sharp darted from the goddesses who wait on painful childbirth, 270 
Daughters of Juno, anguish-fraught to every mortal mother ; 
So thro' the frame of Atreus' son sank pangs of thrilling anguish. 
Into the car he sprang, and charg'd the charioteer to speed him 
Unto the smoothly-hollow ships : for sore his heart was smitten. 
But to the Danai abroad with piercing voice he shouted : 275 

"Oh friends, who to theArgive folk are governours and leaders ! 
To you I leave it, to defend, the sea-careering galleys 

From noisome battle-cry ; for Jove, the Counsellor, allows not 
Me with the Troians to wait the livelong day in combat." 

So spake he: but the driver lash'd the glossy-coated horses 280 

Unto the smoothly-hollow ships : and nothing loth they gallop'd. 
Their breasts with streaks of foam were white, the dust their bellies spat- 
While from the fight they bare away the sorely-galled monarch, [ter'd ; 
But Hector, when afar he saw the back of Agamemnon, 
Loud shouted to the Troians and Lycians and Dardans : 285 

"Dardans, who hand to hand contend, and Lycians and Troians ! 
Be men, my friends ! nor negligent of furious encounter. 
Gone is a hero-chief; and Jove Saturnius hath given 
To me high boast; but drive ye straight the single-hoofed horses 
270. Eileithuiai — is their Greek name. 



188 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Against the doughty Danai, to win a nobler glory." 290 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 
As when against a savage boar or mountain-roaming lion 
A huntsman by his voice doth fill the whitetooth'd hounds with cou- 
So Hector, Priam's son, a peer to Ares, pest of mortals, [rage ; 
Against the Acha'ians did whet the mighty-hearted Troians. 295 
Himself with thoughts of arrogance stept on among the foremost, 
And into thickest struggle dash'd, like to a high tornado, 
Which on a sea of violet with stormy scuffle plungeth. 

Then who was first, and who was last, a sport of death and plunder 
To Hector, son of Priamus, when Jove to glory rais'd him? 300 

First was Assaeus ; after him Autonoiis, Opites, 

Opheltius, and Clytus' son Dolops, and Agelaiis, 

And Orus and iEsymnus and Hipponoiis war-biding. 

Such leaders of the Danai he slew; and next, the many. 304 

As when with massy tempest-stroke the drivingWestwind scareth [ward, 
Clouds by the brilliant Southwind brought, and plump waves rolleth on- 
And by the wayward gale's assault the crests of spray are shiver'd ; 
So the thick crests of Argive men fell prostrate under Hector. 

Then deeds beyond repair had been, and carnage out of number, 310 
And now the fleeing Argive host would haply reach their galleys, 
But that Ulysses cried aloud to Diomed Tydides : 

" Tydides ! why this negligence of furious encounter ? 
Come, gentle heart! and stand by me; for troth ! it were a scandal, 
If that our galleys captur'd were by motley-helmed Hector." 315 

To him with words reciprocal spake stalwart Diomedes : 
" I verily will wait and dare : but short will be our pleasure : 

For Jove, cloud-gathering, to Troy more than to us hath favour." 

He spake, and from the horses huii'd to earth Thymbrseus, smitten 
Thro' the left bosom with the spear: meanwhile in turn Ulysses 321 
Laid prostrate of the selfsame prince the godlike squire Molion. 
Those then they left upon the ground, for ever stay'd from battle. 
Then plunging mid the crowd, the twain made riot ; as resistless, 
Eush two wild boars with souls of pride upon the hounds that chase them: 
So, sallying from bay, did these make havoc of the Troians ; 326 
But gladly breath'd the Acha'ians, escaping godlike Hector. 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 189 

The hero-pair o'ermaster'd next a ear, and two bold brethren 
Chiefs of the people. Verily their sire, Percotan Merops, 

Who above all men divinations knew, forbade his children 330 
To hero-wasting war to march : but they his word obey'd not : 
For why ? the Fates to gloomy death the youths unknowing hurried. 
So from their bodies Tydeus' son, spear-famous Diomedes, 
Emptied the spirit and the life, and stripp'd their beauteous armour. 
Eke by Ulysses slaughter'd were two champions of Troas, 335 

Hippodamus the one was nam'd, Hypeirochus the other. 

Thereat, from Ida looking down, Saturnius adjusted 
The scale of carnage mutual. The spear of Diomedes 

Pierc'd in the hip Agastrophus, a hero-son of Pseon : 
Nor were his steeds at hand to flee ; — and ruinous the folly. 340 

But them his squire apart detain'd ; meanwhile, on foot, their master 
Bag'd thro' the foremost braves, until he lost his tender spirit. 
But Hector mid the ranks descried the twain, and rush'd against them 
With piercing cry ; and after him the bands of Troians follow'd. 
But Diomedes, good at need, at sight of Hector, shudder'd, 345 

Then to Ulysses, standing near, a sudden word address'd he : 

"On us now rolleth this annoy, this overbeariug Hector : 
But let us stand and hold our ground, and sturdily repel him." 

He spake, and poising, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
And struck his mark unerringly, the margin of the helmet. 350 

But from the brass the brass did glance; so his fair skin it reach'd not, 
Warded by bright Apollo's gift, the triple-plated vizor. 
But Hector stagger'd back afar, quick with his people mingling : 
There to his knees the hero sank, on his broad hand supported, 355 
Low on the ground; and both his eyes did swoon in dismal darkness. 
But while the son of Tydeus went his weapon to recover, 
Afar, across the foremost ranks, where on the earth it lighted, 
Meantime did Hector breath regain, and on the seat ascending 
Back drave unto the multitude, and gloomy Fate escaped. 360 

Then, chasing with the javelin, spake stalwart Diomedes : 

"Hound! thou again hast death escap'd: yet verily the mischief 
Came near to thee : but now anew hath bright Apollo sav'd thee; 
To whom, I ween, in din of darts adventuring, thou prayest. 



190 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

But when, next time, on thee I light, I soothly will dispatch thee, 365 
If, eke to me, among the gods is found some able backer. 
But now on others, whomsoe'er I hend, shall be my onset." 
He spake, and straight the armour stripp'd of Paeon's son spear-famous. 
Meanwhile, whereby the mason's hand a rocky tomb was sculptur'd 
To Uus, son of Dardanus, an ancient of the people, 370 

Thereat did Alexander crouch, husband of brighthair'd Helen, 
Behind a pillar hid, and aim'd a shaft against Tydides, 
The people's shepherd ; who, at ease, would snatch the motley corslet 
From breast of brave Agastrophus, and buckler from his shoulders, 
And sturdy helmet : but the foe, his bow to circle straining, 375 
Twang'dit: nor vainly did the bolt speed from his hand, but lighted 
On the right foot, amid the sole ; and thro' and thro', the arrow 
Piercing, within the ground was fix'd. Then gladly laugh'd the archer, 
And from his ambush bounded forth, and spake a boastful saying : 

" It wounded thee: nor sped my shaft in vain : might Heaven grant me 
To hit thee in thy lowest lap, and rieve thy noisome spirit ! 381 

So would at length the Troians have respite from thy mischief, 
Who, shuddering, avoid thee now, as bleating goats the lion." 

But, naught dismay'd, to him replied the stalwart Diomedes : 
" archer, contumelious, horn -brilliant, damsel-gazer ! 385 

Wouldest thou try, in arms complete, to meet my close encounter, 
No succour then thy bow should bring, nor all thy sheaves of arrows. 
Now, that my footsole thou hast graz'd, thus fruitlessly thou boastest. 
Nor more care I, than if thou wert a silly boy or woman : 
For of a pithless worthless man unwarlike is the battle. 390 

Par otherwise in sooth from me rusheth the pointed weapon : 
If that at all it hit the foe, it quick doth lay him lifeless. 

With mangled cheeks his wife is left, in orphanhood his children, 
And while on crimson'd earth he rots,morebirds than women watch him." 

He spake; and close before him stood the spear-renown'd Ulysses, 
While Diomedes sat behind, and tugg'd the stinging arrow 

Out of his foot : but thro' his flesh thrill' d pitiable anguish. 
Into the car he sprang, and charg'd the charioteer to speed him 
Unto the smoothly-hollow ships; for sore his heart was smitten. 400 
385. Horn-brilliant, proud of thy horn-bow. 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 191 

Thereon Ulysses spear-renown'd was lonely left ; for no one 
Of Argives by his side abode, but fear had all o'ermaster'd. 

Then he in indignation spake to his own haughty spirit : 

" Alas ! what now for me is left ? to turn my back, were shameful, 
Fearing the crowd; yet worse it were, if lonely I be captur'd. 405 

And all the other Danai Saturnius hath frighten'd. 

But, fond heart ! why holdest thou within me such discourses ? 
For well know I, that coward men withdraw them from the battle ; 
But whoso playeth champion in warfare, him behoveth 

To stand his ground right sturdily, and conquer or be conquer'd." 410 

While all his bosom and his soul with such debate did struggle, 
Meanwhile the shielded Troians in close array were present, 
And flank'd him round on every side, the danger inmost thrusting. 
As when on traces of a boar the hounds and lusty callants 

Eight eagerly pursue ; but he from a dense thicket rusheth, 4 1 5 
Whetting his tusk of ivory amid his jaws loud-gnashing ; 

Yet round they stream, and on the spot await his charge, tho' dreadful: 
So then Ulysses, dear to Jove, was by the Troians circled. 
But, springing up, he first assail'd the spotless Deiopithes, 420 

High on the shoulder ; after him on Ennomus and Thoon 
Fell deadly ; then Chersidamas, down from his horses hasting, 
Beneath the bossy shield he reach'd, and pierc'd him in the navel : 
So in the dust he fell, the earth with gripe convulsive clutching. 425 
These then he left; but with the spear Hippasides he wounded, 
Charops, who proper brother was to noblehearted Socus. 
But to his succour Socus hied a man, to gods a rival; 
Who at short distance took his stand, and spake unto Ulysses : 
"Ulysses ! rich of lore and wiles, insatiate of labour ! 430 

Over two sons of Hippasus shalt thou to-day have triumph, 

That thou hast two such heroes slain, and eke despoil'd their armour, 
Or else beneath my spear laid low, thyself of life be rieved." 

He spake, and thrusting struck the shield, which equal was on all sides. 
Eight thro' the shield's resplendency hurtled the massy weapon, 435 
And thro' the corslet's crafty work with force uncheck'd was planted, 
And from the ribs stript all the skin : yet not did maid Athene 
Permit its deadly course to reach the vitals of the hero. 



193 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Full well Ulysses knew, himself, not mortal was its errand, 
And back his step withdrawing, gave his answer unto Socus : 440 

"Ha, wretched man! in sooth on thee headlong destruction cometh : 
Me truly thou hast stay'd awhile from fight against the Troians ; 
But upon thee, I promise, here shall gloomy fate and carnage 
This day alight ; and thou, low laid beneath my spear, shalt furnish 
To me a glory, and a life to charioteering Pluto." 445 

While thus he spake, the other turn'd, and quick to flight betook him : 
But ere he might escape, the spear was fix'd between his shoulders 
And pierc'd the helpless back right thro', and reach'd into his bosom : 
So dropt he with a crash: thereat divine Ulysses vaunted : 

" O Socus ! son of Hippasus wise-hearted, courser-taming ! 450 
Quickly hath death o'erhended thee, nor mightest thou escape me. 
Ha, wretched man ! never for thee shall sire and queenly mother 
In sleep of death thy eyelids close; but wrangling fowl shall pluck thee 
With raw devouring beak, and spread their huddling wings around thee. 
But me the Achaians divine, whene'er I die, shall bury." 455 

He spake, and drew the massy spear of skilfulhearted Socus 
Out of his wounded flesh, and eke from out the bossy buckler : 
But after it his blood the more gush'd out, and griev'd his spirit. 
And when the Troians loftysoul'd beheld Ulysses bleeding, 
They all in scuffle rush'd on him with mutual exhorting. 460 

But he, a little, back withdrew, and to his comrades shouted. 
Thrice did he lift his voice, as high as one man's throat may compass, 
And thrice did warlike Menelas receive the voice high-lifted ; 
Then suddenly his thought he spake to Ajax, near him standing : 

"Oh Joveborn governour of peoples, Teiamonian Ajax ! 465 

My ears are compass'd by the voice of hardy-soul'd Ulysses, 
In semblance like to that, as tho' the Troians had caught him 
Alone, by force o'ermastering, amid the hardy struggle. 
But hurry we along the crowd ; far better 'tis to succour. 
For our brave friend I fear, lest he, cut off among the Troians, 470 
Be harm'd, and to the Danai bequeath a mighty sorrow." 

He spake, and led the way: behind, the godlike hero follow'd. 
Then soon Ulysses, dear to Jove, they found ; and Troians round him 
Swarm'd, as a pack of red wild dogs upon the mountains gather 475 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 193 

Around a horned stag, whose side a shaft hath pierc'd. Escaping, 
He hurrieth, while warm his blood, and while his knees support him, 
Till the swift arrow conquers: then the mountain-dogs raw-craving 
Bend him within a shady brake : but if the god bring thither 480 
A baleful lion, quick the dogs disperse, and yield the quarry, 
So then the Troians, numerous and gallant, throng* d "Ulysses 
Well-skill'd in various enterprize and counsel : but the hero 
Still with his weapon sallying repell'd the rueful moment. 

But Ajax nearer came, his shield like to a tower bearing, 485 

And stood beside him : quickly then the foes dispers'd in panic, 
And Menelas by Ares lov'd out of the tumult led him, 

Holding him by the hand, until the squire drave close his horses. 
But Ajax on the Troians sprang and slew a son of Priam, 
Doryclus, mean on mother's side; then Pandocus he wounded 490 
And Pyrasus in close attack, Lysander and Pylartes. 

As when an overflowing brook down from the mountains cometh 
On to the plain with tossing gush, by storms from Jove escorted, 
And many a dry and rotten oak, and many a pine it beareth, 
And slime and rubbish plentiful into the salt wave casteth : 495 
So then did gallant Ajax deal, filling the plain with tumult, 
Horses and heroes slaughtering. Nor yet did Hector hear it ; 
For he beside Scamander's banks far on the left was fighting, 
Where chiefly heads of heroes fell and clamour rose incessant, 500 
Bound warriour Idomeneus and round the mighty Nestor. 

With these did Hector company ; and ruthless deeds achiev'd he 
By spear and charioteering skill, the bands of young men wasting. 
Nor the divine Achaians yet before him had retreated, 

Unless the lord of brighthair'd Helen, royal Alexander, 505 

Had stay'd Machaon, champion and shepherd of the people, 
In his right shoulder piercing him with triple-barbed arrow. 
Eor him theAchaians,breathing might, were sore afraid, lest haply, 
If that the battle change its course, the foemen overhend him. 
Then instantly Idomeneus accosted godlike Nestor : 510 

" Oh Nestor, Neleus' progeny, great glory of the Achaians, 
Haste, mount upon thy chariot : beside thee take Machaon ; 
And quickly to the galleys hold the singlehoofed horses. 

13 



194 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Surely a sage chirurgeon, skilful to cut out arrows 

And overspread assuagements soft, hath many fighters' value." 515 

He spake : to him the charioteer Gerenian Nestor hearken'd, 
And straightway mounted on his car, and took with him Machaon, 
The son of iEsculapius, chirurgeon unblemish'd ; 

And flogg'd the coursers, nothing loth in flying race to speed them 
Unto the smoothly-hollow ships, whither their wishes hasted. 520 

But from afar, Kebriones, the charioteer of Hector, 

Saw tumult in the Troian ranks, and thus address'd his leader : 

" Hector, we, upon the skirts of harshly-roaring battle, 
Here company with Danai ; but all the other Troians, 

They and their steeds promiscuous, in dire confusion struggle. 525 
Ajax, the son of Telamon, doth rout them : well I know him; 

For ample beareth he the shield, around his shoulders hanging. 
But thither eke let us direct our chariot and horses, 

Where signally both horse and foot, propounding evil quarrel, 
In carnage mutual are caught and uncheck'd clamour riseth." 530 

So spake Kebriones, and lash'd the glossy-coated horses 
With the shrillsounding scourge: but they, to the sharp smack attentive, 
Quick sped the chariot among Achaians and Troians, 
Trampling on shields and carcases. Beneath the car the axle, 
And the broad rims orbicular, with gore of men were pelted, 535 
Splash'd from the tires and horses' hoofs. But eager he to enter 
And pierce the human mell,leapt in; nor from the spear withdrew he 
For long ; but in the Danai awaken'd dire disorder. 

With spear and sword and mighty stones the ranks of other heroes 540 
He visited ; but shunn'd the fight of Telamonian Ajax. 

But Jove the lofty -benched sire pour'd terror into Ajax. 
Aghast he stood, and backward threw his sevenhided buckler, 
Turning him round, and gaz'd askance, like some wild beast, receding545 
Step after step unwillingly, dispirited and beaten. 

And as when dogs and rustic men have chas'd a tawny lion 
From out a midmost oxen-yard, and, thro' the long night watching, 
Balk of" the dainty food his maw; forward and back he springeth, 550 
Hungry and scar'd; for darts thick flung from sturdy hands repel him, 
And burning brands, which harry him, howe'er his greed be whetted; 



book xl] THE ILIAD. 195 

And in the morning, sorely griev'd and empty, off he passeth : 

So Ajax from the Troians then withdrew, in heart reluctant, 555 

Sorely distrest ; for mightily fear for the galleys mov'd him. 

As a dull ass doth on the fields resist the might of children, 

Who on his hide break many a stick; yet he the corn doth enter 

And crop the juicy blade ; in vain their childish force assails him, 560 

And hardly may they drive him out, when he is fill'd with fodder : 

So then the allies from distance call'd and high-soul'd Troians, thrusting 

On his mid shield with lengthy pikes, drave Telamonian Ajax. 

And Ajax one time bent his soul to furious encounter, 565 

Rallying firm, and check'd the bands of coursertaming Troians; 

At other time he turned to flee ; yet, even so, restrain'd he 

The foeman's inroad on the fleet ; for still did he terrific 

Twixt Troians and Achaians stand': and spears with onward errand 570 

Flung from bold hands, stood partly fix'd within his mighty buckler, 

And others midway numerous, for glut of carnage greedy, 

Ere the fair skin they might attain, harmless in earth were planted. 

When thereupon Eurypylus, Eusemon's brilliant offspring, 
Perceiv'd him by thick darts distrest, he sudden stood beside him, 575 
And huii'd his shining spear, and struck Phausides Apisaon, 
The people's shepherd, neath the heart, and straight unstrung his sinews; 
Then onward rush'd he, and would strip the armour from his shoulders. 
Which godlike Alexander saw, and forthwith drew an arrow 580 
Against Eurypylus : the shaft in his right thigh was planted : 

There was it broken short, and sore the wounded limb disabled : 
And back he to his comrade-troop retreated, fate avoiding. 
Then to the Danai abroad with piercing voice he shouted : 585 

"Q frierlds, who to the Argive folk are governours and leaders, 
Bally, and ward the rueful day from Ajax, who by weapons 
Sorely is press'd, and scarce may scape from harshly roaring battle. 
But front, and meet your champion, great Telamonian Ajax." 590 

When thus the wounded hero cried, they clos'd their ranks,and hurried, 
With spears extended, shields aslant, till Ajax came and met them : 
And quickly fac'd he round,when first he reach'd his troop of comrades. 

While thus, in guise of blazing fire, the combatants were raging, 595 
The sweating mares from off the field bare Nestor and Machaon. 
Him, as he came, divine Achilles foot-reliant notic'd ; 



196 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Por he upon his galley's poop, which rose like some sea-monster, 
Stood gazing on the toil severe and all their tearful riot. 600 

Then from the galley shouted he, and call'd to him Patroclus, 
His comrade: he, within the tent, did hear; and forth he issued 
A peer to Ares : — this to him commencement was of evil. 
Then gallant Menoetiades did first discourses open : 

"Achilles ! wherefore callest me ? wherein my service needest ? " 605 
But him Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd in words responsive : 

" godlike Menoetiades, to my regards most pleasing, 

Now deem I that the Achaians will fall in supplication 
Around my knees : for need at length unbearable hath reach'd them. 
But now, Patroclus, dear to Jove ! hie thee, and ask of Nestor, 610 
What wounded hero in his car he carrieth from battle. 
To me his hinder aspect seem'd all like unto Machaon, 
The son of iEsculapius : but his front view I saw not, 

Por-that the onward-hasting mares shot speedily across me." 

Thusanswer'dhe: Patroclus then obey'd his dear companion, 615 
And hied to speed him by the tents and galleys of the Achaians. 

When to the tent of Neleus' son the chariot had borne tbem, 
Upon the many-feeding Earth the heroes twain alighted. 
Thereat the squire Eurymedon the old man's steeds unharness'd. 
Themselves,upon the beach, would dry the sweat from off their garments 
In the sea-breeze ; then entering the tent, on couches rested. 
Por them a mingled drink was made by brightlock'd Hecamede, 
Daughter of brave Arsinoiis, whom to the aged chieftain, 625 

Por-that in counsel he excell'd, the Achaian choice awarded 
Prom the fair isle of Tenedos, what time Achilles riev'd it. 
She first before them swiftly plac'd a table, fair, well-polish'd, 
With feet of dusky blue ; and next, on it a brazen flagon, 
Pale honey, sacred barley-meal, and drink-enticing onion; 630 

Near these, a cup all-gorgeous, with golden chasings studded, 
Which the old man from home had brought. Double its stem : on margin 
Pour ears stood out ; aside of each two golden doves were feeding. 
To move it from the board, when full, to others cost much effort, 635 
Yet aged Nestor easily did from the table lift it. 

Then with Pramneian wine the dame, in semblance as a goddess, 
Mingled therein a drink for them, and with a brazen scraper 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 197 

First goats' cheese into it she par'd, then barley-meal ensprinkled, 610 
And bade them to indulge their hearts, sith-that the drink was ready. 
When therefore from much-parchingthirst thepleasant draught had freed 
By friendly intercourse of talk did each delight the other, [them, 

Meanwhile Patroclus, godlike man, before the doors was present. 
Thereat from off his shining seat the aged chief arising, 
Led him within with grasp of hand and urg'd him to be seated ; 615 
Patroclus, he on other side discreetly spake refusal : 

"No seat for me, Jovenurtur'd friend! nor may I be persuaded. 
Majestic, quick to wrath, is he who hither sent me forward, 
To ask, what wounded hero thou didst carry : but already 
I know it ; for I see Machaon, shepherd of the people. 650 

Now, to discharge my ambassy, return I to Achilles. 
Well thou, Jovenurtur'd aged friend! the moody passion knowest 
Of that dread man; who presently mayhap would blame the blameless." 

To him thereat the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 
" But wherefore doth Achilles thus beweep Achaia's children, 655 

Be few or many wounded sore ? nor knoweth he how sorrow 
Over the army wide is spread ? sith-that the Argive bravest 
Lie prostrate at the galley-side, by stab or flying weapon. 
A lance hath Agamemnon pierc'd, a lance hath pierc'd Ulysses, 660 
Arrows have reach'd Eurypylus and stalwart Diomedes ; 
I a third arrow-wounded chief have rescued : but Achilles, 
[Tho' valiant, for the Danai hath no concern nor pity. 

Waits he, till, on the water's edge, in spite of Argive effort, 665 

The foe's invading fire shall warm our sharply-pointed galleys, 
And we ourselves, line after line, be slain ? for now no longer 
Sinew have I, as once I had within my buxom members. 

O that I still were thus in youth and unimpair'd my vigour, 
As when of old a fray arose twixt us and the Eleians, 670 

What time, in strife for captur'd kine, Itymoneus I slaughter'd, 
Brave offspring of Hypeirochus, who held his home in Elis. 

664. To omit 98 lines would here be a great and obvious improvement. 
These lines may have been patched in by the poet himself, to gratify some 
Pylian hearer. No one will seriously defend such inopportune garrulity by 
alluding to Nestor's wine-cap : yet the passage has its interest to ua. 



198 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Pledges of booty we would seize, and lie his kine would rescue ; 

But from my hand a dart was flung, and mid the foremost struck him ; 

So down he fell; and round the corpse his rustic people trembled. 675 

But booty from the plain we drave promiscuous in plenty : 

For fifty were the herds of beeves, the flocks of sheep were fifty, 

Fifty the grazing troops of swine, the goats' broad herds were fifty ; 

But three times fifty were the heads of auburn steeds we captur'd, 

All of the gentler sex; and foals to many ran beside them. 680 

These to the town by night we drave within Neleian Pylos, 

And glad was Neleus, that success my early warfare greeted. 

But when the Dawn her face had shown, the heralds shrilly summon'd 
All, whosoe'er on score of spoil had claims on heav'nly Elis. 685 
Thereat, from all the Pylians the princely chiefs assembling 

Distributed; for many a one was by the Epeians plunder'd, 

When, scant in numbers, we engag'd, and worsted were in Pylos. 
For-that, in former years, had come unto our loss and sorrow 
The mightiness of Heracles, who slew our bravest heroes. 690 

For, of male offspring, children twelve were born to spotless Neleus, 
But, sole survivor, I of these was left; the others perish'd. 

Therefore, contemptuous in pride, the brazen-cloak'd Epeians 
Did contumely upon us heap and direful doings plotted. 

So then my parent for himself a herd of kine selected 695 

And a vast flock of sheep; andpick'd three hundred, with their keepers. 
For, to him also, large redress was due from heav'nly Elis. 
For when, to join the race, he sent a chariot and horses, — 
Four steeds for prizes famous, — them the prince of men Augeias 700 
Kept ; and sent off the charioteer, in grief to lose his horses. 
At such affairs, and deeds likewise, my aged sire was wrathful, 
Andpick'd uncounted recompence: the rest for distribution 
Unto the people yielded he, that none might miss his portion. 

So we then severally dealt the gear, and round the city 705 

Unto the gods did sacrifice ; but they, together thronging, 

On the third day came forth, themselves and singlehoofed horses, 
With general levy: mid their ranks were arm'd the two Molions, 
Children in age, nor yet wellskill'd in furious encounter. — 

At distance from Alpheius' banks the city Thryoessa 710 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 199 

Sitteth upon a lofty knoll, farthest of sandy Pylos : 

Round this their warriours did spread, all eager to destroy it. 

But when they cover'd all the plain, and unto us Athene 

Came from Olympus darting swift with message to array us, 

By night, — in Pylos gather' d she the people not reluctant, 715 

But burning fierce with eagerness of war : nor me did Neleus 

Allow to busk me for the fight, but hid away my horses ; 

For I, he said, not yet had skill in deeds of warlike prowess. 

Yet, even so, forth sallying on foot, was I distinguish'd 

Amid our charioteers : for so the strife Athene guided. — 720 

Near to Arene falls a stream into the briny billow, 
The river Minyeius, where we with the steeds awaited 

The heav'nly dawn; but forward flow'd the Pylian troops of footmen. 
In general levy thence we rush'd, complete in arms accoutred, 
And at the noon of day attain'd Alpheius' sacred current. 725 

Pair victims then we offered to Jupiter o'erswaying ; 

A bull to Neptune did we slay, a bull unto Alpheius, 
Lastly, a heifer of the herd unto greyey'd Athene. 

Along the host, by rank and rank, we took, each man his supper, 
And by the river-banks we slept, each in his proper armour. 730 
Eager to storm our city, throng'd the loftysoul'd Epeians, 
But sudden now must they confront a mighty work of Ares. 
For when with shining beams the sun above the earth was risen, 
Our ranks upon them rush'd, with pray'r to Jove and to Athene. 735 
When contest thus arose betwixt the Pylians and Epeians, 
First I a hero slew, and won his singlehoofed horses, 

The spear-renowned Mulius ; a prince, who held in wedlock 

Augeias' daughter eldest-born, the auburn Agamede, 
Skill'd in all medicinal drugs, whatever broad Earth reareth. 740 
Him with the brazen-pointed spear, as he advanc'd, I pierced : 
So down in dust he fell ; but I, into his chariot leaping, 
Confronted all their champions : but the highsoul'd Epeians 
Shrunk this and that way, panic-struck at fall of such a hero, 
A leader of their chariots, a champion excelling. 745 

Then, thro' their ranks, in darted /, like to a gloomy tempest, 
And captur'd fifty chariots : beneath my weapon vanquish'd, 



200 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

Two men from every one did gripe the earth with bite convulsive. 

Now had I Actor's offspring- quell' d, the two Molion-children, 
But that their widelyruling sire, the great Land-shaking power, 750 
Out of the battle rescued them with copious mist enshrouded. 
Then to the Pylians did Jove vouchsafe surpassing puissance. 

For we, across the widespread plain, with eagerness did follow, 
Slaying the men, and gathering their arms and beauteous harness, 
Until our steeds that land of wheat, Buprasium, had enter'd, 755 

Beside the rock of Olenus, and, near the famous " Pillar," 

Aleisium. There, to return, Athene warn'd the people. 

There the last hero did I slay and left him ; but the Achaians 

To Pylos from Buprasium back their swift horses guided, 

And all, to Jove of gods, gave praise, but among men to Nestor. 760 
Such was I, when in truth I was, mid heroes ; but Achilles] 
Alone surviving will enjoy his courage : much repentance 

He surely, all too late, will know, after the folk hath perish'd. 
O gentle heart ! thus verily Mencetius did charge thee 

Upon the day, when he from Phthia sent thee to Atrides. 765 

We two, then entering your home, I and divine Ulysses, 
Heard in the chambers everything, how urgently he charg'd thee. 
For we, the army gathering o'er populous Achaia, 

Came to the mansion noblyplac'd of Peleus, prince of Phthia. 
There found we in its ample walls Menoetius the hero 770 

And thee and Achileus; meanwhile old charioteering Peleus 
To thunderloving Jupiter did burn fat thighs of oxen 

"Within the cloister of his yard ; and held a golden tankard 
And pour'd from it the sparkling wine upon the blazing victims. 
So round the carcases you both were busied : we before you 775 
Stood in the threshold. Starting up in quick surprize Achilles 
Led us within with grasp of hand, and urg'd us to be seated, 

749. The twins, named Molions after their mother (as is supposed), are re- 
garded by Homer as having Actor for their titidar father, Neptune for their 
true father. Cteatus and Eurytus are their names, 2, 621. See also 13, 185 
and 207. 

758. The Achaians. The phrase here suggests, that the Epeians of Elis were 
not strictly Achaians. 



book xi.] THE ILIAD. 201 

And tender'd kindly courtesy, as is the due of strangers. 

But when of eating and of drink we had our pleasure taken, 

Then foremost I our errand told, and urg'd you, us to follow. 780 

Willing were ye; and they, your sires, in many words did charge you. 

Then aged Peleus straitly charg'd upon his child Achilles, 

Alway to be preeminent, and play the chief to others ; 

And Actor's son Mencetius on thee in turn laid charges : 

* Truly, my child, in princely rank Achilles standeth higher ; 785 

Older of birth art thou ; but he in prowess far surpasseth : 

But speak a prudent word to him discreetly; make suggestion; 

Guide w T ith authority to good; then shall he give compliance.' 

So spake thy aged sire ; but thou forgettest ; yet, be urgent 

On skilful-hearted Achileus e'en now, if-that he hear thee. 790 

Who knoweth, if with heaven's aid thou mayest by persuasion 

Bestir his spirit ? useful is a comrade's exhortation. 

But if, with heart foreboding, he some heav'nly danger shunneth, 

Which, from the lips of Jupiter, his queenly mother taught him, 

Yet let him thee permit, and send the Myrmidons behind thee 795 

(So haply to the Danai mayest thou be for comfort), 

And for the fight entrust to thee his own resplendent armour; 

If-that perchance the Troians, deluded by thy semblance, 

Abstain from battle, and hereby Achaia's warlike children 

Gain respite of their toil; — and short the respite is of warfare. 800 

'Twere light for you unwearied, from off the tents and galleys, 

Unto the city back to drive men wearied in combat." 

He spake; and strongly did bestir the hero's heart within him, 
Who back unto iEacides along the galleys hasten'd. 

But when Patroclus near the ships of the divine Ulysses 805 

In his career arriv'd, whereat were built the sacred altars, 

Round which the Argives causes judg'd with ordinances holy; 
Here met he, limping out of war, Euaemon's Jove-born offspring, 
Eurypylus, who in the thigh was with an arrow wounded, [gled 

Down from his head and shoulders flow'd the sweat; and dark blood gur- 
Outof the fretting wound; but yet no swoon oppress'd his members. 
Then valiant Mencetiades did pitying behold him, 

And, winged accents uttering, sent forth a wail of sorrow : 



202 THE ILIAD. [book xi. 

" Ha, wretched ! who to Danai are governours and leaders ! 815 
So then, your doom it was, afar from friends and native country, 
With whiteness of your fat to gorge the eager dogs in Troas ! 
But truly now, Eurypylus, thou Jove-born hero, tell me ; — 

Thinkest, the Achaians yet will stay the huge o'erbearing Hector ? 
Or that, beneath his spear subdued, they instantly will perish ? " 820 

Then prudent-soul'd Eurypylus confronting him responded : 
" No further bulwark will there be, Patroclus Jove-descended ! 
But all the Achaians will fall beside their dusky galleys. 

For all who formerly bare lead, as bravest of the Argives, 
Lie prostrate at the galley-side by stab or flying arrow 825 

Beneath the hands of Troians, whose strength is alway fiercer. 
But me at least save thou, and lead unto thy dusky galley, 
And from my thigh the arrow cut, and wash the gore's defilement 
Out of the wound with water warm; and o'er it spread assuagements 
Salubrious and gentle; which (they say) Achilles taught thee, 830 
Who was himself by Cheiron taught, the justest of the Centaurs. 
For as to our chirurgeons, Podaleiris and Machaon, 

One in his tent doth wounded lie, a blameless healer needing 
Himself; the other on the plain the Troian war awaiteth." 835 

Then gallant Mencetiades accosted him responsive : 

" Hero Eurypylus ! what course remaineth? how to serve thee ? 
To skilful-hearted Achileus I go, to carry tiding, 

Eeturning from Gerenian Nestor, watcher of the Achaians : 
Yet even so, in sore distress, I may not lightly leave thee." 840 

He spake, and grasp'd beneath the breast the shepherd of the people, 
And led him to a tent. A squire beholding, spread beneath him 
Ox-hides, whereon he stretched him; then cutting, he extracted 
The pointed arrow anguish-fraught; and wash'd the gore's defilement 
With water warm; then with his hands he rubb'd for quick infusion 845 
A bitter pain-assuaging root, whereby the pangs of sorrow 

Were all arrested ; thus the wound was staunch'd, the blood was stopped. 

834. Blameless, — perhaps opposed to Sorcery, as 6, 171. But the word in 
some connections may seem to mean Kenned, Libex*al (arts). See 9, 127; 13, 
637. Indeed Tacitus says " sanctissimas Arruntii artes," for refined and noble 
accomplishments. 



203 



BOOK XII. 

1 hus valiant Mencetiades within the tents was healing 

Wounded Eurypylus : meanwhile the Troians and Argives 
In close battalions combated : nor longer might the rampart 
And moat avail, with which their ships the Danai encompass'd 5 

(Yet no illustrious hecatombs unto the gods did offer), 

That the sharp galleys and much spoil it might enclose and rescue : 
But, built against the immortals' will, not long unharm'd it lasted. 
So long as Hector was alive, and Achileus was wrathful, 10 

And while as princely Priam's city still abode unravag'd, 
So long did eke unharm'd abide the great Achaian rampart. 
But when among the Troians the bravest all had perish'd, 

And whoso of the Argives liv'd, did Priam's city capture 15 

In the tenth year, and straight embark to seek their native country ; 
Then Neptune and Apollo plann'd to lay the rampart level, 
Turning on it the rivers' might, which seaward flow from Ida, 
Heptaporus and Ehodius, Granicus and Caresus, 20 

Khesus, Aisepus,.Simois, . and the divine Scamander, 

Where crests and oxhides fell in mud, and many a hero's offspring. 
But bright Apollo turn' d their mouths for nine days on the rampart, 
And Jove did rain continuous to swamp the walls in ocean, 25 
And the land-shaking god himself, in hand the trident holding, 
Led the attack, and from the depth the stocks and stones uprooted, 
In-builded by Achaian toil, and mix'd them with the billows, 

And to grand-flowing Helle's stream made all the region level. 30 

Then all the mighty shore again with heaps of sand he cover'd, 
After the rampart flat was laid ; and to their proper channel 
Turn'd back the rivers, where before ran their fair-streaming water. 

Such were the after-deeds to be of Neptune and Apollo : 
But then did fight and clamour blaze round the wellbuilded rampart. 35 
The timbers of the towers crash'd with many a blow, and, fainting 



204 THE ILIAD. [book xii. 

Beneath the scourge of Jupiter, the Argives at their galleys 

Were hemm'd in fear of Priam's son, stout counsellor of terror. 

But he, like to a hurricane, as heretofore, made havoc. 40 

As when mid hunter-troop and hounds a boar or lion faceth, 

With grim delight of strength; but they, arrang'd in close battalion, 

Frontwise do stand, and shower thick their darts ; but flight nor terror 

Moveth his noble heart; but him his bravery will ruin; 45 

And oftentime he turneth him, the hunter-ranks attempting, 

And to what part he dasheth straight, there yield the ranks of hunters : 

Thus Hector thro' the maze of men did rush, and to his comrades 

Gave charge to cross the moat; nor yet his nimblefooted horses 50 

Might dare it; but they loud did neigh, close on the outmost margin, 

Affrayed by the mighty trench, too wide for overleaping, 

Too close for passage : all along on either side the scarpment 

Hung over, and sharp stakes aloft were planted stout and many, 55 

Which Panachaia's children fix'd, a shelter from the foeman. 

Not easily might there the steed, the wheeled chariot trailing, 

Down venture; but the ranks of foot did hanker to achieve it. 

Then, standing by bold Hector's side, Polydamas address'd him : 60 

"Hector, and ye the rest, whoe'er lead-on the allies or Troians, 
Madly across the moat we drive the nimblefooted horses. 
And it, sore troublous is to pass : for pointed stakes within it 
Are planted ; and anent to them the Achaian rampart standeth. 
Not thither must the charioteers descend in rash embroilment ; 65 
For in its narrowness, I ween, may cruel wounds assail us. 
Now if high rumbling Jupiter, unflinchingly malignant 
Against the foe, hath ta'en resolve the Troians to succour ; 
This verily forthwith would I desire to be accomplish'd, 

That,far from Argos, shorn of fame, the Achaians here might perish. 70 
But if they rally in recoil and drive us from the galleys, 

Chasing in turn, and we within the digged moat be smitten ; 
No longer then would messenger, — I say, not one, — escaping 
Back to the city reach, beneath the rallying of Argos. 
But come, as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow. 75 

Let every squire upon the moat rein up the eager horses, 
But we ourselves on foot, with arms and panoply accoutred, 



book xii.] THE ILIAD. 205 

Shall in a body follow close with Hector ; but the Achaians 

Will not withstand, if, sooth! for them are Ruin's meshes fasten'd." 

Thus sagely spake Polydamas, and won the heart of Hector; 80 
Who straightway from his chariot leapt to the ground in armour. 
Nor stay'd the other Troians upon their cars assembled, 

But all dismounted instantly, on seeing godlike Hector. 

Then to his proper charioteer each chief gave urgent bidding 

There on the moat in order due to bridle in the horses; 85 

But they themselves, in five-fold band of foot, their leaders follow'd. 
Of them the largest company and bravest went with Hector 

And with discreet Polydamas ; and greatly were they eager 
The rampart to destroy, and fight beside the hollow galleys. 90 

Along with these Kebriones went third ; but by the horses 

Hector another left, to him inferiour in prowess. 

Paris, Alcathous, Agenor, led the next battalion. 

Over the third Deiphobus and Helenus the godlike, 

Two sons of Priam ; but with them was Asius the hero, 95 

Asius, son of Hyrtacus, whom coursers from Arisba 

Flame-hued and stately bare along from the Sellers river. 
Next came Anchises' bonny child, who to the fourth was leader, 
iEneias ; but beside him stood two children of Antenor, 
Archelochus and Acamas, well skill'd in various battle. 100 

Over the glorious allies Sarpedon was commander, 

Who Glaucus chose beside, and eke warlike Asteropseus : 
For these among them seem'd to him, for valorous distinction, 
After himself, to stand supreme ; but he mid all was signal. 
Now when with frames of oxen-hide, each clos'd upon his neighbour,105 
Against the Danai they dash'd, all eagerness, and reckon'd 
No more to be withheld, but rush and gain the dusky galleys. 

Then all the other Troians, and eke the allies far-summon'd, 
Were, to the blameless counsel of Polydamas, compliant : 
But not the son of Hyrtacus, Asius, chief of heroes, 110 

Was willing there to leave his steeds and charioteer attendant ; 
But to the galleys sharp approach'd behind his stately horses, 
O simpleton ! nor troth ! for him, with chariot and coursers 
Bragly adorn'd, the gods decreed safe journey from the galleys 



206 THE ILIAD. [book xii. 

Back unto windy Ilium, from evil doom escaping. 115 

Nay : for a luckless Destiny did earlier enshroud him 

Beneath the son of Deucalus, Idomeneus the lordly. 

For he unto the galleys' left did hie him, where the Achaians 

Out of the plain were streaming back with chariots and horses. 
There, thro' he drove his car and steeds; for at the gates he found not 
The panels' ample breadth foreclos'd, nor the huge bar athwart them. 
But men did hold them open wide; if haply they might rescue 
Some of their comrades, who from war would flee unto the galleys. 
Thither with purpose straight he held his steeds ; the people follow'd 
With piercing yell ; for verily they reckon' d that the Achaians 125 
No more would be withheld, but rush to gain their dusky galleys : 
O simpletons ! for in the gates they found two signal heroes, 
From the spear-wielding Lapithse a loftyminded offspring ; 
One to Peirithoiis was son, the stalwart Polypcetes, 

Leonteus was the other, peer to Ares, pest of mortals. 130 

The twain before the lofty gates did stand, as on the mountains 
Highheaded oaks, which day by day the wind and rains do buffet, 
Yet firmly still they hold their ground, by mighty roots engrappled. 
So then the chieftains twain, on hands and bravery reliant, 135 

Awaited mighty Asius, nor shrank from his encounter. 

But with appalling hurly, straight against the wall well-builded, 
Holding aloft the rigid frames of oxhide, rush'd the people 
Around the princely Asius, Iamenus, Orestes, 

Adamas, son of Asius, (Enomaus and Thoon. 140 

Truly the others would, at first, within the wall abiding, 
The dapper-greav'd Achaians urge to combat for the galleys : 
But when the Troians they saw upon the rampart rushing, 
While of the Danai arose screaming at once and terror ; 

Thereat, forth sallying, the twain beyond the portals battled, 145 
Like boars of field and mountain, which await the halloo and scurry 
Of dogs and hunters; slant they dash, and crush the circling forest 
Snapt from the roots; andclash their tusks, untilsome dart may slay them: 
So unto these the shining brass did clash upon their bosom, 150- N 
Pelted by adverse weapons ; sith right sturdily they battled, 

117. Deucalus. The form of the name is Deucalion in 13, 451. 



book xii.] THE ILIAD. 207 

Eeliant on their folk above, and on their proper courage. 

But those with weighty stones did fling from the wellbuilded towers, 
Themselves to succour, and the tents, and the swift-coursing galleys. 15 5 
As on the ground do flakes of snow fall thick, which gusty tempests, 
Whirling the shady storm-clouds, shed on Earth the many-feeder, 
So from their hands a flying stream was pour'd, alike from Troians 
And from Achaians : helmets hard and bossy targets, batter'd 160 
By massy weights, like stones of mill, with hollow boom resounded. 
Then Asius Hyrtacides, indignant at the struggle, 

Slapt on his thighs with double hand, and utter'd words of groaning : 

"0 father Jove! and eke dost thou delight to balk the credence 
Of trustful mortals? never I, in sooth, against our valour 165 

And hands intractable, believ'd the Achaian host would rally. 
But they, as wasps with stripy waist, or bees, which make their houses 
Along a craggy-clifted path, maintain their hollow dwelling, 

And swarm against marauding men, to combat for their children ; 170 
No other wise do these refuse to yield them from the portals, 
Albeit twain alone, until they conquer or be conquer'd." 

He spake, nor by his argument the heart of Jove persuaded, 
Who upon Hector chose to set the primacy of glory. 

Now battle, diverse gates around, by diverse men was waged ; 175 
And troth ! for me, like to a god, all things to tell, were toilsome. 
Eor round and o'er the stony wall the lire's unearthly splendor 
Arose terrific : so, perforce, albeit griev'd, the Argives 

Eought for the galleys; and the gods were pierc'd in heart with anguish, 
By whomso of Olympians the Danai were holpen. 180 

Yet did the Lapithae engage in war and foeman's bargain. 
And straightway Peirithoides, the stalwart Polypcetes, 
Hit Damasus, and pierced thro' his brazen-cheeked helmet : 
Nor might the brazen helm resist the weighty spear; but thro' it, 185 
Mid bone and brain the weapon splash'd, and quell'd his eager hurry. 
Next he for death and plunder hent both Ormenus and Pylon. 
While, at the girdle aiming well, Leonteus, branch of Ares, 
Struck with the spear Hippomachus, Antimachus' brave offspring: 
Then drawing from the scabbard quick the keenly-whetted cutlass, 190 
Ptush'd close upon Antiphates amid the crowd, and smote him 



208 THE ILIAD. [book xii. 

Full prostrate : next, Iamenus, and Menon, and Orestes, 

All these successive cast he down on Earth the many-feeder. 194 

While from the bodies of the slain they stript the sparkling armour, 
Meanwhile, behind Polydamas and Hector, throng'd the bravest, 
Eager the rampart to o'erthrow and burn with fire the galleys : 
But standing at the trench's brink they faltered in the onset. 
For, while they eager were to pass, an omen flew from heaven, 200 
An eagle lofty-hovering, keeping to left the people, 

Who in her talons bare away a gory monstrous serpent, 

Alive and quivering, nor yet of battle-glee forgetful. 

For writhing backward in her grasp, it tore her neck and bosom, 205 
Till, stung with anguish, down amid the gazing crowd she dropt it, 
And on the breezes of the wind herself sail'd off with screaming. 
Thereat the Troians shudder'd, when they saw the stripy serpent 
Lying amid them, — prodigy of Jove the aegis-holder. 

Then, standing by bold Hector's side, Polydamas address'd him : 210 

"Hector! when I in council speak sage argument, thou ever 
Castest on me some blame, as tho' no common man may venture 
In peace or war thy mind to cross, but only swell thy glory. 
Yet roundly will I speak my thought, as best to me it seemeth. 215 

Go not against the Danai to combat for their galleys ! 

For I this issue do forebode, if truly on the Troians 

Eager to pass the moat and wall this omen came from heaven, 
The eagle lofty-hovering, keeping to left the people, 

Who in her talons bare away a gory monstrous serpent 220 

Alive ; but dropt it instantly, ere her dear nest attain'd she, 
Nor might complete the chase, and bear the quarry to her children : 
So, if by mighty strength we burst the gates and stony rampart, 
And force the Achaians to retire; yet, not in comely order 224 

Shall we along the selfsame course march homeward from the galleys. 
Sith, many a Troian shall we leave behind us, whom the Achaians 
May with the wasting brass lay low, contending for the galleys. 
Thus would a sage interpreter, welltrusted by the people 
For lore of heav'nly prodigies, spell forth to thee the vision." 

To him with frowning glance replied great motley-helmed Hector: 230 
" Polydamas ! thy word to me no longer friendly soundeth : 



book xii.] THE ILIAD. 209 

Well knowest thou to meditate some other counsel better. 
But if in very truth such wise in earnest thou haranguest, 
Then surely have the gods themselves marr'd all thy native prudence ; 
Who wouldest urge my heart to be forgetful of the purpose, 235 

Of which high-rumbling Jupiter by sacred nod assur'd me. 
But thou, forsooth ! exhortest me in lengthy-feather'd omens 
To trust : but I, in view of these, nor bashful am nor anxious, 
Whether toward the east and sun they on the right hand hie them, 
Or leftwise haply they may sheer toward the dusk of sunset. 240 
For us; rely we confident on Jupiter's high purpose, 

Who reigneth mighty over all, both mortals and immortals. 
One omen is for ever best, — to battle for one's country. 

But, as for thee, why dreadest thou warfare and foeman's bargain ? 
For if the rest of us shall all beside the Argive galleys 245 

Eush upon slaughter, yet for thee no fear there is to perish ; 
Sith, heart to sally, none hast thou, nor to await the foeman. 
But if thyself shalt skulk away, or by enticing reason, 
Smooth-tongu'd, shalt others turn aside and damp them for the battle ; 
Forthwith, beneath my spear laid low, shalt thou of life be rieved." 250 

With such address he led the way, and they beside him follow'd 
With shout unearthly : after it, from Ida's mountain-summits 
Did thunder-loving Jupiter arouse a squally tempest, 

Which on the galleys carried straight the dust ; and he, bewitching 
The Argive spirit, glory sent to Hector and the Troians; 255 

Who, trusting on His prodigies and on their proper courage, 
Made many a trial to destroy the mighty Argive rampart. 

They push'd against the battlements, they pull'd the towers' outwork, 
They undermin'd the buttresses, which first the Achaians planted 
Deep-rooted in the ground, to serve as holders of the towers. 260 

At these they mightily did toil, to breach the Argive rampart 
By force : nor yet the Danai withdrew them from the struggle : 

But they for fence and battlement broad oxhide bucklers holding, 
From under them assail'd the foe, who came beneath the rampart. 
Along the towers, to and fro, meanwhile the two Ajaces, 265 

With cheery shout exhorting, mov'd, to rouse the Achaian courage. 
And when they any might descry all-negligent of battle, 

14 



210 THE ILIAD. [book xii. 

This one with words of gentleness, that one they harshly chided : 

"0 friends! whoso of Argives is preeminent or feeblest, 
Or eke of middle state (for, troth ! not all of men in combat 270 

Alike may quit them) : now for all a common struggle pendeth. 
And this yourselves too know, I ween: wherefore let no one, hearing 
The foe's upbraidment, turn his back to flee unto the galleys ; 
But forward ever struggle ye, and each exhort the other, 
If Jove, the Olympian lightener, this day, may haply grant us 275 
The onset to repulse, and chase the foemen to their city." 

Thus did the twain with forward shout stir up the Achaian battle. 
But they, — as thick the flakes of snow fall in a day of winter, 
When Jove the Counsellor is bent his weapons to exhibit 280 

Snowing on mortals : mid the lull of winds, he sheds it constant, 
Until the lofty mountain-peaks and outmost knolls it cover, 
And eke the lotus-bearing plains and the fat tilth of peasants : 
Yea, and along the hoary brine the shores and creeks it lineth, 
Save where the billows washing up repel it; but beyond them 285 
Are all things overwrapt, whene'er the storm from Jove is heavy : 
So they on either side did fling, — on Troians — on Achaians, — 
The stones thick-showering; and noise along the rampart hooted. 
Nor then might yet the Troians and gallant Hector striving 290 
Have bursten thro' the mighty bar and panels of the portal, 
Unless-that Jove the Counsellor had rous'd his son Sarpedon 
To sally, as a lion bounds on crumple -horned cattle. 

Forthwith, he held in front his shield, which equal was on all sides, 
Brazen and fair, by crafty smith well-hammer'd ; but within it 295 
Many bullhides were firmly sew'd, around, on golden edges. 
This foremost holding for defence, two javelins he brandish'd, 
And started on his path; in guise, as mountain- nurtur'd lion, 
Whom, when of flesh bereaved long, his haughty spirit urgeth, 300 

In sally on the sheep, to pierce within their closed penfold : 
Tor tho' beside it swains on guard with dogs and spears await him, 
Yet without struggle scorneth he to scurry from the tumult, 
But either he some spoil doth seize, amid the flock alighting, 305 

Or by a dart from some brisk hand himself is wounded sooner : 
So then Sarpedon, match for gods, by daring soul was driven 



book xii.] THE ILIAD. 211 

To mount upon the foeman's wall and burst its strong defences. 
To Glaucus Hippolochides a word address'd he straightway : 

"Wherefore, O Glaucus, are we both for meed of honour greeted 310 
With seat exalted, dainty flesh, and oft-replenish'd goblet, 
In Lycia P and why do all as peers of gods regard us ? 

Why are we grac'd by wide domain beside the banks of Xanthus, 
Noble for wheat-producing soil, * for fruitful orchards noble ? 
Now then beseemeth us, I ween, to stand among the foremost, 815 
And lead the Lycians to meet the fiery brunt of battle ; 
That thus may every Lycian close-corsleted applaud us : — 

* Not verily inglorious the princes of our people 

Do domineer in Lycia, consuming fatten'd cattle 

And choicest honey-pleasant wine; but in their sinew liveth 320 

Brave spirit ; sith among the first of Lycians they combat.' — 
gentle friend ! if thou and I, from this encounter scaping, 
Hereafter might for ever be from Eld and Death exempted 

As heav'nly gods, not I in sooth would fight among the foremost, 
Nor liefly thee would I advance to man-ennobling battle. 325 

Now, — sith ten thousand shapes of Death do any-gait pursue us, 
Which never mortal may evade, tho' sly of foot and nimble ; — 
Onward ! and glory let us earn, or glory yield to some one." 

He spake: nor then did Glaucus flinch, or hear his word reluctant : 
So, side by side, the twain led on the Lycian battalions. 330 

But Mnestheus, son of Peteos, their vast array beholding, 
Shudder'd : for lie the tower held, at which their mischief aimed. 
He then along the Achaian wall did anxious peer, if haply 
He might some chief espy, and win protection for his comrades. 
Quick he descried the Ajaces twain, insatiate of battle, 335 

Standing; and Teucer, from the tent newly arriv'd, beside them, 
Nor distant; yet, to reach their ears by shout, his throat avail'd not; 
For, drowning was the battle-din : to heaven rose the clatter 
From banging at the shields, and helms with triple crest of horsetail, 
And at the gates: for all of them were fasten'd: but against them 340 
Stood mighty troops, who forcibly would try to burst an entrance. 
Then forward he to Ajax sent Thootes, speedy herald : 
326. Any-gait i in any way, at auy rate, at all events. 



212 THE ILIAD. [book xii. 

"Godlike Thootes ! hie thee swift, and hither Ajax summon ; 
Bather the twain : for that of all were best: sith dire destruction 345 
Here threatens: for with weighty force impend the Lycian leaders, 
Who staunch and wight were heretofore amid our hardy struggles. 
But if there too distressful strife press hard, yet let them spare us 
The valiant son of Telamon, with Teucer, skilful archer. 5 ' 350 

He spake ; nor disobedient the herald heard his bidding, 
But sped to go along the wall of dapper-greav'd Achaians, 
And quickly reach'd the Ajaces' side, and instantly address'd them : 

"Ho ! ye Ajaces ! leaders twain of brazencoated Argives ! 
Jove-nurtur'd Peteos' dear son doth urgently entreat you 355 

Thither to go, that, for awhile at least, ye stay the danger ; 
Rather the twain : for that of all were best : sith dire destruction 
There threatens: for with weighty force impend the Lycian leaders, 
Who staunch and wight were heretofore amid our hardy struggles. 360 
But if here too distressful strife press hard, at least afford them 
The valiant son of Telamon, with Teucer, skilful archer." 

So spake he, nor reluctant found great Telamonian Ajax, 
Who straightway to Oileus' son did winged accents utter: 365 

"Ajax ! hereat abiding, thou and stalwart Lycomedes, 
The Danai to battle rouse ; I, to repel the danger, 

Go thither ; but again will come, when them I well have rescued." 

Then Ajax, son of Telamon, with such address departed, 370 
Attended by his father's son, Teucer his trusty brother; 

And by their side Pandion bare the bending bow of Teucer. 
When at the tower they arriv'd of mightysoul'd Menestheus, 
Within the rampart entering, and found their comrades straiten'd; 

Just then upon the battlements, like to a gloomy tempest, 375 

The governours and leaders brave of Lycia were mounting: 
So front to front both sides did dash, and high arose the clamour. 

Pirst Ajax, son of Telamon, laid low an adverse hero, 
The mighty-hearted Epicles, a comrade of Sarpedon : 

Him with a rugged stone he smote, which lay within the rampart 380 
Highest beside the battlements : no man, tho' young and sturdy 
(Men such as now are), easily with both his hands would raise it. 

Yet on the helm with fourfold ridge he from aloft did swing it. 



book xii.] THE ILIAD. 213 

Helmet and bones and head were sniash'd at once ; and like a diver, 385 
He from the lofty tower plung'd, and life his bones abandon'd. 
But Teucer aim'd an arrowshot, and from the lofty rampart 
Did eager-rushing Glaucus hit, Hippolochus' brave offspring, 
Where he the arm unguarded saw ; and check'd his glee of valour. 
He from the tower stealthily leapt back, that no Achaian 390 

Might pry more closely at the wound and words of triumph utter. 
But anguish on Sarpedon came, when Glaucus thus departed, 
Soon as he saw it : he natheless did hero-glee remember. 
With lucky aim of spear he hit Alcmaon, son of Thestor, 
And pluck'd the weapon out: thereat the wounded hero headlong 395 
Follow'd the spear, and round him clash'd his brass -belayed armour. 
Sarpedon then with sturdy hands a battlement engrappled, 
And tugg'd toward him : all of it follow'd in mass : the rampart 
With a wide breach was open laid, and made a road for many. 
Both sons of Telamon rush'd up ; and Teucer with an arrow 400 

Struck, on his breast, the brilliant strap of the man-hiding buckler : 
But Jove forbad his proper son at galley's poop to perish. 
Then Ajax with a mighty bound smote on his shield ; and thro' it 
Altho' the weapon pierced not, it check'd the eager hero, 405 

Who from the breach retir'd a space: nor yet did he withdraw him 
Entirely ; sith his soul was smit with hope of earning glory. 
Forthwith, the godlike Lycians he rallying exhorted : 

" Lycians, why thus relax from furious encounter? 
For me, whate'er my bravery, the task is overmatching, 410 

By my own single strength to force a passage to the galleys. 
But follow after, — all in plump : the more, I deem, the better." 

He spake: the people quail'd beneath the prince's voice upbraiding, 
And, round their chieftain-counsellor, press'd weightier of onset. 
The Argives on the other side strengthen'd their close battalions 
Within the rampart: then for both was mighty toil propounded. 
For neither might the Lycians, tho' valiant, burst the rampart, 
And force amid the Danai a passage to the galleys : 

Nor might the spearmen Danai repel the Lycian onset 
And hurl them from the rampart back, when once their band attain' d it. 
But as within a common field two men contest the limits 



214 THE ILIAD. [book xii. 

With rod in hand, and inch by inch debate the doubtful portion ; 
So by the battlements were these scarce sunder'd ; and across them, 
Each of the other, ravaged around their hardy bosoms 425 

The oxhide shields orbicular and shaggy-winged targets. 

Then by close stab from ruthless brass was many a hero wounded, 
Or fleeing with unguarded back, or frontwise thro' the buckler. 
Thus everywhere with gore of men the battlements and towers 430 
On either side bespatter'd were from Troians and Achaians. 
Nor might they, even so, avail to fright away the Achaians : 
But as a woman, scrupulous and toilsome for her children 

To earn hard sustenance by wool, trimmeth her anxious balance; 435 
So in their balance was the war, by weights on both sides, equal, 
Until-that overswaying Jove to Hector son of Priam 

Gave higher glory, who was first to cross the Achaian rampart. 
So shouted he with piercing voice to all the Troian army : 

"Up! coursertaming Troians! burst the rampart of the Argives, 440 
And on their galleys scatter well the fire's unearthly fury." 

He spake exhorting: all of them did ope their ears to hear him, 
And straight ahead against the wall together rush'd : thereafter, 
Bearing wellsharpen'd javelins, they clomb upon the outwork. 
Then Hector clutch'd a massy stone, which lay before the entrance, 445 
Broad at the base, but sharp above: 'not two men pick'd for sinew 
On to a carriage easily might heave it from the pavement, 

(Men such as now are seen), but he alone with ease did swing it : 
Eor crookedwitted Saturn's child took off for him the burthen. 450 
As when some lusty swain the fleece of a male sheep may carry, 
A single hand sufficeth him, and slight the toil to raise it ; 

So Hector, lifting high the stone, bore straight against the panels, 
Which clos'd the lofty two-leav'd gates, tightly and stoutly fitted, 
Clasp'd by alternate inward bars, thro' which one bolt was fasten'd. 
There, at short distance did he stand, and sturdily enforc'd it 
Eull on their middle; stepping broad, to make his swing the stronger. 
The hinges both were torn away : the stone with weighty hurtle 
Fell thro' within, and mightily the portals boom'd around it : 460 
The bars were shatter'd by the blow; the panels split to shivers. 
Then in did gallant Hector leap. The gloom of Night swift-rushing 



book xiil] THE ILIAD. 215 

Mantled his cheeks; the sheathing brass shone horrid from his body : 
Two spears he brandish'd: baleful gleam burnt in his eyes; nor any, 465 
Save only god, might check his rush, when thro' the gates he bounded. 
Facing about, to right, to left, he shouted to the Troians 
To climb the rampart: nothing loth, they hearken' d to his summons. 
Straightway, some overclomb the wall; some thro' the very portals 
Stream'd in, and forc'd the Danai up to the hollow galleys 470 

In flight ; and unremitting din arose in either army. 



BOOK XIII. 

W hen to the galleys Jove had thus brought Hector and the Troians, 
There left he either host with toil and wearisome disaster 
To struggle : but himself away his beaming eyen turned, 
Gazing upon the distant land of Thrake's horseman people, 

The Moesians close-combating and lordly-soul'd Mare-milkers, 5 
Justest of men, who feed on milk, nor martial weapon handle. 
But he no longer unto Troy his beaming eyen turned : 

For surely in his heart he deem'd, that none of the immortals 
To Troians or to Danai for battle-aid would venture. 

Nor was a fruitless outlook kept by the landshaking ruler : 10 

For he too held a lofty seat, the hardy war admiring, 

Upon the topmost pinnacle of woody Samo-Thrake ; 

Whence, open to the view, appear'd Ida, and Priam's city, 
And galleys of the Danai : so, from the wave emerging, 

6. I interpret Abioi to mean "without bows." The ancients did not, because 
they looked for truth in such notices by Homer. He seems to me to have 
conceived of the Mare-milkers, as Herodotus of the Argippaeans. 



216 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Hither he hied him, pitying the Argives, by the Troians 15 

Sore worsted ; and with Jupiter was mightily indignant : 
Then from the mountain's craggy highth incontinent descended 
With foot outstriding rapidly. The forest and long ridges 
Shiver'd beneath the immortal tread of Neptune onward hasting. 
Three steps he made; and with the fourth he reach'd his goal at ZEgae ; 
iEgae, within whose lake profound are builded to his honour 
Golden abodes illustrious, that sparkle undecaying. 

Hither arriv'd, beneath the yoke he shot his heav'nly coursers,, 
Brazen of foot and swift to fly, with golden manes longstreaming. 
He on his own immortal skin with gold was clad; and grasping 25 

The golden lash's canny weight, on his own seat he mounted, 
And o'er the billows 'gan him drive. From all their caverns rising, 
The ocean-monsters well beknew their lord, and frisk'd around him. 
The sea with gladness op'd its lap, as those immortal coursers 
Skimm'do'erit; nor was, underneath, the brazen axle wetted. 30 

So him the lightly bounding steeds bare to the Achaian galleys. 

Within the water's secret depth an ample cavern lieth, 
In midway course from Tenedos and craggy-clifted Imbros. 
Here Neptune, shaker of the earth, his steeds' career arrested, 
And loos'd them from the yoke, and cast ambrosial fodder near them 35 
For pasture; and around their feet he tackled golden fetters, 
Proof against mighty blows or craft; that they, their lord awaiting, 
Might firm abide, the while he went unto the Achaian army. 

With Hector, son of Priamus, the thickly gather' d Troians, 
Went, like to flame or like a squall, immeasurably eager, 40 

And roar'd and skirl'd in unison; and ever hop'd to capture 
The Argive galleys, and to slay, beside them, all the Achaians. 
Bat Neptune, earth-encircling god, land-shaker, — like to Calchas 
In shape and voice unwearied, out of the deep sea coming, 45 
The Argives rous'd; and first address'd the Ajaces, alway eager: 

" Ajaces ! verily ye twain will save the Achaian people, 

If ye remember bravery and not benumbing terror. 

For, tho' the Troians in a crowd have scal'd the mighty rampart, 
Yet I their hands intractable in other places fear not : 50 

Sith-that the Achaians dapper-greav'd avail to stay their onset. 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 217 

But here, with terrible dismay I grimly dread disaster, 

Where, like to flame celestial, this frantic man is captain, 

Hector, who vaunteth him a son of Jove supremely mighty. 

would some god this argument within your bosom stablish, 55 

Yourselves right sturdily to hold, and urge the other people ! 

Then, let him rush his worst, but ye from the swiftcoursing galleys 

Would dash him, even if himself the Olympian incite him." 

This said; the earth-encircling god, land-shaker, with his sceptre 
Smote both of them, and fill'd them full with heart-inspiring vigour. 60 
Their limbs, — both feet and hands above, — nimble he made and buxom. 
Himself, — as darteth on its flight a rapid-winged falcon, 
Which, bent another bird to chase along the boundless champaign, 
Soareth from some farreaching ledge of precipices stormcapt ; 
So, parting from their company, land-shaking Neptune soared. 65 
Of them, Oileus' agile son first knew the voice of heaven, 

And to the son of Telamon his thought did instant utter : 

"Ajax! sithin an augur's shape some god, from high Olympus 
Descending, biddeth thee and me to combat by the galleys : — 
Nor troth! is he our oracle and omen-speller Calchas. 70 

For, as he started, clear I mark'd the traces of his footstep ; 
And gods, tho' gods they be, to men are easy of discernment. 
Yea, and myself do feel within thro' all my deepest bosom 
Fresh purposes of warlike deeds kindled ; and every member, 
Both feet below and hands above, are fill'd with noble vigour." 75 

Then Ajax, son of Telamon, accosted him responsive : 
'• Eke unto me hath he bestirred the spirit ; and beneath me 
Both feet spring forward; and my hands intractable are frantic, 
Grasping the spear; and e'en alone I hanker for the combat 
With Hector Priam's son, tho' he be measureless in fury." 80 

Thus they reciprocal exchang'd betwixt themselves discourses, 
Eejoicing in the hero-glee, wherewith the god inspired them. 

Meanwhile the Earth-encompasser arous'd the hindmost Argives, 
Who to the galley-side withdrawn their tender heart recruited. 
But now their sinews were unstrung by all-oppressing travail, 85 

And anguish rose within their heart to see the sight of terror, 
When in a crowd the Troians had scal'd the mighty rampart. 



218 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Gazing at these, big tears they dropt, nor thought to scape the mischief: 
But the Earch-shaker entering soon rous'd the stout battalions. 90 
To Teucer first and Leitus with exhortation came he, 

To Thoas and Peneleos and Deipyrus the hero, 

Antilochus and Merion, sage counsellors of onset. 

Then he, to stir their bravery, did winged accents utter: 

"0 shame! ye Argives, tender boys! on you in sooth I trusted 95 
By deeds of valiant enterprize our galleys to deliver. 
But if ye slackly take in hand the mournful work of battle, 
Now do we see our day of doom to fall beneath the Troians. 
Good Spirits ! troth, a marvel great doth here my eyes encounter, 
Dreadful; — of which the complishment never my heart expected; — 100 
That men of Troy have hardihood to reach the ships of Argos ; 
Men, who were like to timid hinds before ; which in the forest 
To panthers or to wolves become, or to wild dogs, a quarry, 
Helpless at random wandering, of battle-glee unconscious ; 
So heretofore the Troians, with Argive might confronted, 105 

Knew not our onset to abide for e'en a scanty moment ; 

But now, far from their walls they fight, hard by the hollow galleys, 
For-that perverse our leader is, and negligent our people, 
Who, quarrelling with him, refuse for the seacoursing galleys 
To battle valiantly, and now themselves are slain beside them.110 

But if the widely ruling king, the hero Agamemnon, 
In very truth is blameable, for-that he hath dishonour'd 

Pelides fleet of foot : yet we nowise should be neglectful, 

But heal the mischief: healsome are the bosoms of the noble. 115 

Nor ye neglectful well may be of furious encounter, 
Who all are bravest in the host : but if a sorry fighter 
Were slack in battle, never I with such a man would wrangle 

Or blame ; but verily with you from soul am I indignant. 
O gentle hearts ! by this neglect some worser ill ye haply 120 

May bring on us: but, each of you, both Shame and Indignation 
Within his bosom print : for lo ! a mighty strife is risen. 
For now doth Hector, good at need, beside the galleys combat, 
Direful ; who hath the mighty bar and portal-panels shatter'd." 

Goading the Argive spirit thus, the Earth-encircler urg'd them. 125 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 219 

Then stood, around the Ajaces twain, the closely-wedg'd battalions, 
Stubborn ; which neither Ares nor Athene people-stirrer 
Beviewing, would disparage them : for, the selected bravest 
Did here against the Troians and godlike Hector's onset 

Stand firm, and fenced spear with spear, buckler to buckler closing. 130 
So helmet was by helmet screen'd and buckler propt by buckler, 
And warriour by warriour : the horsetail-helmets waving 

With ridges bright each other touch'd: so thick they stood together. 
The javelins were like to kiss, when sturdyhands would wield them, 
But the men's hearts were gone in front, and burn'd to join the battle. 135 

Forward in plump the Troians rush'd; for at their head was Hector, 
Frantic with purpose of assault ; as may a massy boulder 
Eoll o'er the margin of a cliff, if tempest-swollen torrents 
Have wrench'd the brute crag's fastenings by countless gush of waters : 
Aloft it bounceth : with the shock the forest boometh hollow : 140 
But it with unimpeded swing careereth, till it lighteth 

On the flat plain ; nor farther then may all its impulse roll it : 
So Hector's mighty rush, awhile, unto the water's margin 
Threaten'd to reach, right thro' the tents and galleys of the Achaians, 
Slaying : but when he lighted on the closely wedg'd battalions, 145 
He paus'd, full near them: for in front the children of Achaia, 
With swords and with twohanded pikes against his bosom stabbing, 
Kept him to measur'd distance off: so to retreat they drave him. 
Then shouted he with piercing voice to all the Troian army : 

"Dardans, who hand to hand contend, and Lycians, and Troians ! 150 
Stand firmly by my side : not long the Achaians shall stay me, 
Albeit tower-wise in sooth they dress themselves for battle. 

But they (I reckon) will retire beneath my spear, if truly 
Me hath the chief of gods impell'd, loud-rumbling lord of Juno." 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 155 
But Priam's son Deiphobus mid them with haughty spirit 

Did march, and forward held his shield, which equal was on all sides, 
Under its covert stealthily with tripping gait advancing. 

But Merion with shining spear took faithful aim against him, 
And hit him on the tough bullhide, which equal was on all sides : ] 60 
Nor might he pierce it thro', for first the lengthy spear was broken 



220 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Low in the shaft : yet far aloof Deiphobus did hurtle 
The leathern buckler from his side, in terror, lest the weapon 
Of skilfulhearted Merion might reach him. But the hero 

Retreated to his comrade troop; and grimly was indignant 165 

Alike for ruin'd victory and for his broken weapon. 

Then hied he him, along the tents and galleys of the Achaians, 
Out of his proper tent to fetch, a lance which there he treasur'd. 
Meanwhile, the others join'd in fight, and clamour rose incessant. 

Then Teucer, son of Telamon, was first to slay a hero, 170 

The spearman Imbrius, a son of Mentor rich in horses. 

Ere-that Achaia's children came, his dwelling was Pedseus, 
And Medecasta was his bride, a meaner child of Priam. 
But when the Danai appear'd with easy-steering galleys, 

Back came he then to Ilium, and was among the Troians 175 

Signal, and dwelt in Priam's court, honour'd as Priam's children. 
Him Teucer reach' d beneath the ear with thrust of lengthy weapon, 
And back withdrew it; then,, as falls an ashtree by the woodman, 
Which on a farseen mountain's top its tender leaves lays prostrate ; 180 
So did he fall: and round him clash'd his brass-belayed armour. 
Then rush'd the son of Telamon, eager to strip his harness, 
But with the shining javelin against him Hector darted. 

He, seeing it, by scanty space the brazen point avoided, 
Which deadly on the bosom struck Amphimachus, the offspring 185 
Of Cteatus Actorides returning to the battle : 

So with aloud crash down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 
Then Hector from the hero's head would rush to snatch the helmet 
Of mighty-soul'd Amphimachus, wellfitted to his temples : 
But Ajax with the shining spear at Hector thrust ; nor pierc'd him : 
(Tor all his flesh with dreadful brass was sheathed:) but he goaded 
The buckler's boss right sturdily, and into distance drave him 
From both the corpses: these forthwith the Achaians drew toward them. 
Amphimachus by Stichius and by divine Menestheus, 195 

Leaders of Athens, mid the host of Danai was carried ; 
Imbrius, by the Ajaces twain, for fierce encounter eager. 
As when from dogs with jagged fangs in thickets of a forest 
Two lions snatch a goat ; aloft within their jaws they bear it, 200 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 221 

Baisingit from the ground; so him the twain fullarm'd Ajaces 

Carried aloft, then stript his arms : but next, Oileus' offspring 

In anger for Amphimachus his tender neck beheaded, 

And sent the sever'd head to whirl, ball-wise, among the people : 

So down into the dust it came before the feet of Hector. 205 

Then Neptune, shaker of the earth, was, deep in soul, embitter'd, 
To see his grandson perishing in grim embrace of foemen, 
And hied to go along the tents and galleys of the Achaians, 
To whet the souls of Danai ; and plotted woe to Troians. 

Him presently Idomeneus thespear-renown'dencounter'd,210 

Returning from a comrade's tent, whom his companions newly 
Bare from the war, beneath the ham by a sharp weapon pierced. 
On the chirurgeons had he laid charge, and forth was coming : 

For still to meet the war he burn'd. Him the Land-shaking power 215 
Accosted ; but in voice he seem'd Thoas, Andraemon's offspring, 
Who, over lofty Calydon and in wide Pleuron, ruled 

The iEtolians ; and by the folk, e'en as a god, was honour'd. 

" Idomeneus, high councillor of Cretans ! whither vanish 
The threats, which once at Troians Achaia's children utter'd ?" 220 

To him in turn Idomeneus, the Cretan leader answer'd : 
" No man, I reckon, is in fault : Thoas, all are valiant. 
No heartless fear possesseth us, nor yet, to sloth compliant, 
Doth any Argive basely shun dire battle : but, it seemeth, 225 

By Saturn's overmatching child this issue is determin'd, 
That far from Argos, shorn of fame, the Achaians here should perish. 
But Thoas ! to withstand the foe thou heretofore wast alway 
Alert, and eke dost others urge, whomso thou seest idle ; 
Now, more than ever, stir thee well, and one by one exhort them." 230 

Then Neptune, shaker of the earth, accosted him responsive : 
<c Idomeneus ! oh may that man never from soil of Troas 
Safely return, but here to dogs become a joyful portion, 
Whoever this day willingly neglectful is of battle. 

But hither hie thee quick, and take thy arms, and let us sally 235 

In speed ; if haply only two may yet achieve some succour. 

Consorted valour tells for much ; yea, e'en of sorry fighters : 
207. See note on 11, 749 (the two Molions). 



222 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

But thou and I are trained, eke against the brave to quit us." 

Thus said, again the god was mix'd amid the toil of heroes. 
But soon as e'er Idomeneus his wellmade tent had enter'd, 240 

He donn'd his beauteous arms, and gat two javelins, and hurried 
In fashion as a lightning-bolt, which Saturn's offspring, grasping 
With hand resplendent, brandisheth from summit of Olympus, 
Showing a sign to mortal men ; and brilliant are its flashes : 
So brilliant was the brass, upon the running prince's bosom. 245 
Nor distant from the tent was he, when lo ! he met returning 
Meriones, his comely squire, who for a brazen weapon 

Would come: then great Idomeneus accosted his companion: 

"0 son of Molus, Merion fleet-footed, dearest comrade, 

Why hither coming leavest thou the war and foeman's bargain? 250 
Art haply somewhere wounded, and the weapon's point doth rack thee ? 
Or com'st in errand after me ? nor troth ! myself do hanker 
Idle within my tents to sit, but sturdily to combat." 

Thereat the sage Meriones accosted him responsive : 

" Idomeneus, high councillor of brazencoated Cretans, 255 

In quest return I, if perchance within thy tents thou leavest 
A spear : for that which heretofore I wielded, have we broken 
Against the shield of Priam's son, Deiphobus the haughty." 

To him in turn Idomeneus, the Cretan leader, answer'd : 
"Spears, if it list thee, thou in sooth shalt find or one or twenty, 260 
Standing together in my tent against the splendid frontings; 

Which from the slaughter'd Troians I rifle : nor regard I 
From far to skirmish with the foe : and therefore have I plenty 
Of helms and corslets laughing bright and spears and bossy bucklers." 

Thereat the sage Meriones accosted him responsive : 

" Eke unto me beside my tent and in my dusky galley 
Are many Troian spoils ; but now too far they lie to take them : 
Eor neither (as I trow) myself forgetful am of prowess, 
But do among the foremost stand in man-ennobling combat, 270 

When in embattled warriours dire controversy riseth. 

If haply to some other man of brazencloak'd Achaians 

My battle be unseen, yet thou (I ween) thyself dost know it." 

To him in turn Idomeneus, the Cretan leader, answer'd : 



book xni.] THE ILIAD. 223 

"What is thy valour, well I know : such argument is needless : 275 
For if beside the galleys now we all, whoe'er are bravest, 

Were pick'd for ambuscade, wherein men's worth is best distinguish'd, 
Where dastard men and valorous are clearly seen asunder : — 
(For oft the coward changeth hue, nor may his soul be steady; 280 
From knee to knee he shifteth him, and feet beneath him foldeth, 
His heart within him, boding doom, throbbeth ; his teeth do chatter : 
While-that the brave man changeth not his hue, nor greatly knoweth 
Tremor, when he with comrade-men the ambuscade hath enter'd, 285 
But only prayeth speedily in mournful brunt to mingle :) 

Not even there might any man thy heart and hands disparage. 
For if, in mell of battle, thou by dart or thrust wert wounded, 

Not from behind the blow would light, but in thy breast or belly, 290 
Wliile onward rushing to the van for converse with the foremost. 
But come (lest some indignant be and arrogant), no longer 
Stand we, as prating simpletons, such argument to reckon : 
But hie thee to my tent, and there pick out a sturdy weapon." 

He spake, and eager Merion, an equipoise to Ares, 295 

Clutching from out the tent a spear, after his leader darted. 
In guise as Ares, pest to man, moveth to war, and with him 
Terror, his darling son, is seen, both stalwart and unflinching, 
Who even in a hardy soul doth damp the battle's ardour : 300 

But they from Thrace accoutre them, twixt Ephyri to parley 
And mightyhearted Phlegyes ; nor yet to both the armies 
Alike may listen, but to one give eminence of glory : 

Such then proceeded to the war those captains of the Argives, 
Idomeneus and Merion, with flaming brass accoutred. 305 

To him thereon Meriones did first his question utter : 

"O son of Deucalus, whereat wiliest the crowd to enter? 
Whether toward the right of all, or midmost of the army, 
Or, as I ween, toward the left ? for nowhere else so sorely 
Doth want of champions distress the streaminghair'd Achaians." 310 

To him in turn Idomeneus, the Cretan leader, answer'd: 
"At midmost of the galleys stand eke other chiefs to succour, — 

301. "There are four Ephyras," says the old scholiast : but seven towns of 
this name are counted in Dr. W, Smith's Geogr. Diet. 



224 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

The Ajaces twain, and Teucer, who in archery is signal 
Mid all Achaians, and alike brave in the standing-conflict. 

These will a glut of turmoil give (tho' stalwart be his valour) 315 
To Hector, son of Priamus, now rushing into battle. 

And frantic as his purpose is, hard will he find the effort 

Their hands and hearts intractable to quell, and bum our galleys, 
Unless Saturnius himself cast naming brands upon them. 320 

Great Ajax, son of Telamon, to none of men is second 

Who mortal may of fabric be and eat the fruit of Ceres, 

Whose body may by pointed brass and mighty stones be wounded. 
Not hero-crushing Achileus would carry vantage from him 

In standing combat ; speed alone preeminent he claimeth. 325 

Keep we to leftward of the host ; so shall we know full quickly, 
Whether we glory may achieve, or glory yield to some one." 

He spake ; and eager Merion, an equipoise to Ares, 
Led in the path, until they reach'd amid the leftward army. 
They, when Idomeneus they saw, like to a flame in fury, — 330 

Himself and his attendant, girt in all their curious armour, — 
They all in scuffle rush'd on him with mutual exhorting ; 
And opposite the outmost ships their strife was poised even. 
As when by might of whistling winds tornadoes haste together, 
In season when along the roads the dust is thickly heaped, 335 
And mist promiscuous doth rise ; so did their battle thicken, 
Dark and embroil'd : and mutual they burn'd in heart for carnage. 
With long fleshgashing pikes of brass the mortal combat bristled, 
And eyes were blinn'd by brazen gleam from newly polish'd corslets 340 
And beaming shields and flashing helms, as close they came together. 
Hard were the heart, which saw such toil with gladness, not with sorrow. 

Diverse in spirit and in aim, two mighty sons of Saturn 345 
Were for the hero-warriours dire misery devising. 

Jove, as I said, will'd victory for Hector and the Troians 

To glorify swift Achileus ; nor wholly yet he listed 

Before the walls of Ilium the Achaian host to perish : 

But Thetis would he glorify and her highhearted offspring. 350 

And Neptune, from the hoary brine in close disguise emerging, 
Bestirr'd the Argives, passing thro'; vex'd that they sore were worsted 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 225 

By Troians ; and with Jupiter was mightily indignant. 

Truly of both, the breed was one ; one and the same their birthplace ; 

But Jupiter was elder born, and wider was his knowledge. 355 

Therefore in manifest array did Neptune shun to succour, 

But alway stealthily the ranks bestirr'd, in mortal figure. 

So they, alternate, both ways haul'd the cable tough and stubborn 

Of strife and war all-levelling which many knees unstringeth. 360 

Then, shouting to the Danai and on the Troians leaping, 
Idomeneus, tho' ting'd with grey, began the rout of foemen, 
In-that Ottnyoneus he slew; who at the battle -rumour 

Was newly from Cabesus come, and had his home in Troas, 
And sued Cassandra for his bride, of Priam's daughters fairest ; 365 
Nor other dower proffered, but pledg'd a great achievement, 

That he from Troas-land perforce would drive Achaia's children. 
To this the aged Priamus assented, and behote him 

The royal damsel : so he fought, on that behest reliant. 
Aiming at him, Idomeneus with shining weapon darted, 370 

And hit him as he lofty strode, and pierc'd him thro' the body ; 
Nor did the corslet aught avail, which, wrought of brass, encas'dhim: 
So with a loud crash down he dropt. Thereat the victor boasted : 

" Thee chiefly of the sons of men, Othryoneus ! extol I, 
If truly thou wilt all achieve, which lately thou behotest 375 

To Priam, sprung from Dardanus ; who pledg'd to thee his daughter. 
We too behest would make to thee, and faithfully perform it, 
To lead from Argos as thy bride, of Agamemnon's daughters 
Whoso may fairest be of form ; if that with us thou capture 
(In sootb) and pillage Ilium, that thickly-peopled fortress. 380 

But off ! with me ! so shall we make at our seacoursing galleys 
The marriage-compact; sith-that we of dower are not stingy." 

So spake Idomeneus, and tugg'd, amid the hardy struggle, 
His foeman by the foot : thereon came Asius for vengeance, 
Afoot before his coursers. These his charioteer attendant 385 

Kept at his shoulders, breathing hot : but while the hero hanker'd 
To hit Idomeneus, himself was earlier arrested, 

368. To beliigJit, is, to mention by name, to specify ; hence, to promise. So 
a behest, is a thing specified or promised; though used latterly for a command. 

15 



226 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Pierc'd by the Cretan javelin, which through his weazand issued. 

Then toppled he, as may an oak or some white poplar topple, 

Or pine upon the mountain-side tall shooting, which for timber 390 

Ship-carpenters have inly chopt with newly whetted axes : 

So he, before his chariot and coursers, lay extended, 

Gnashing his teeth, — the gory dust with hand convulsive clutching. 

But of the wits, which erst he had, the charioteer was stricken ; 

Nor heart retained he enough to scape the hands of foemen, 395 

"Wheeling his coursers ; thereupon Antilochus war-biding, 

Hit him with skilful javelin, and pierc'd him thro' the body : 

Nor did the corslet aught avail, which, wrought of brass, encas'd him : 

So from the well-wrought chariot he fell, and gasp'd expiring. 

The coursers by Antilochus, son of great -hearted Nestor, 400 

Were from the Troians driven to the dapper-greav'd Achaians. 

Then close against Idomeneus Deiphobus advancing 

Stung by the loss of Asius, with shining weapon darted. 

The Cretan saw it opposite, and stoop'd to shun its fury, 

Hiding beneath his ample shield ; which equal was on all sides, 405 

And by the turner's skill was cas'd with dazzling brass and leather 

Of sturdy bull-hide, and within with double guide was fitted. 

Snug under covert here he crouch'd, the while the flying danger 

Pass'd over ; but the buckler jarr'd with harsh and hollow tinkle, 

Graz'd by the spear : nor vainly then from his broad hand it issued, 410 

But hit a shepherd of the folk, Hippasides Hypsenor, 

Where lies the liver neath the heart; and straight unstrung his sinews. 

Then loudly cried Deiphobus with marvellous rejoicing : 

" In truth not unaveng'd in turn lies Asius : but wending 
Unto the portals tightly barr'd of Aides the stubborn, 415 

He will (I ween) rejoice ; sith I escort to him have given." 

W T hen thus he vauntingly exclaim'd, it sorely griev'd the Argives, 
And chiefly to Antilochus bestirr'd the prudent bosom. 

Nor did he, tho' with anguish stung, neglect his own companion, 
But ran and overstrode his limbs and spread the buckler round him. 420 
Then, stooping to receive the load, his two belov'd companions 
Mekisteus, son of Echius and the divine Alastor 

Unto the smoothly hollow ships with moans of sorrow bare him. 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 227 

Nor yet Idomeneus withdrew his might ; but alvvay hanker'd 

Either to veil in gloom of night some Troian, or to perish 425 

Himself in combat, warding oif dire slaughter from the Argives. 

Jove-nurtur'd Aesyetas left an offspring dear, — the hero 

Alcathoiis, who held as spouse a daughter of Anchises, 
Hippodameia, eldest born of all Anchises' daughters. 

Her in the chambers of their home her sire and queenly mother 430 
Supremely lov'd at heart ; for she mid all her friends of childhood 
Egregious for beauty was, for mind, and handy cunning : 

Therefore in all the breadth of Troy the noblest bridegroom found she. 
But he, her lov'd one, now beneath Idomeneus was vanquish'd ; 
For Neptune witch'd his sparkling eyes and tied his gallant sinews. 435 
For neitherback ward might he haste nor shun the adverse danger, 
But, like a lofty-spreading tree, or like a pillar, stood he 
All motionless in front ; until Idomeneus the hero 

Pierc'd thro' his bosom with the spear, and burst the tunic round him, 
Brass-twisted; which in former dayshis life from bale defended : 440 
But now right harshly did it clank, around the rending weapon. 
So with a loud crash down he dropt; but deep the spear was planted 
Within his heart, which, panting high, made the shaft's end to quiver, 
Until rude-hurtling Ares gave remission of his fury. 
Then loudly cried Idomeneus, with marvellous rejoicing: 445 

"Deiphobus! how countest thou the tale of slaughter'd foemen? 
Three against one, despite thy boast, a worthy portion seemeth, 
elf-possessed ! But thyself stand forward and confront me ; 
So mayest thou be taught, what blood from Jupiter I carry, 
Who, for the oversight of Crete, did Minos erst engender : 450 

Minos in turn a son begat, Deucalion the spotless ; 

But me begat Deucalion, , for lordship of the peoples 

Over the ample Crete : and now hither my ships have borne me, 
To thee and to thy sire a woe and to the other Troians." 

So spake he : then Deiphobus with double purpose falter'd, 455 
Whether to take in comradeship some mighty-hearted Troian, 
Backward retiring, or to try his oavu unaided puissance, 

\fter such ponderings of thought, he deemed, it were wiser 



228 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

To fetch iEneias : him be found among the rear battalions, 
Standing : and alway rancorous was he with godlike Priam, 460 
That to a chieftain so approv'd no leadership he trusted. 
Then near before his face he stood, and winged accents utter'd : 

" High councillor of Troians ! iEneias ! thee behoveth 
Now to avenge thy sister's lord, if kinsmanship doth move thee. 
Haste ! vengeance for Alcathoiis ! who, being thy stepbrother, 465 
Within his chambers heretofore did nurture thee, when little. 
Him spear-renown'd Idomeneus hath hent for death and plunder." 

He spake, and strongly did bestir the hero's heart within him, 
Who hied, Idomeneus to meet, with fiery zeal of battle. 
Eut nowise was Idomeneus dismay'd, as tender weakling; 470 

But stoutly waited, as a boar, on bravery reliant, 
Which in a solitary lair awaiteth on the mountains 

The riot of a rushing throng : then high his back doth bristle, 

And his two eyen gleam with fire; and in his jaws he whetteth 
His tusks, full resolute of heart to stop both hounds and huntsmen. 
So spear-renown'd Idomeneus abode, nor yielded footstep, 476 
Before iEneias keen at need ; but shouted for his comrades, 

Ascalaphus and Aphareus and Deipyrus to summon, 

Antilochus and Merion, sage counsellors of onset. 

These calling to his aid, did he in winged accents urge them : 480 

" Hither, my friends ! and succour me, who am alone ; and grimly 
Dread I iEneias fleet of foot, who now on me is rushing ; 

Who, heroes in the fight to slay, surpassingly is stalwart, 
Yea, and of youth the flower hath, whereof is mighty vantage. 
For if, with such a heart as this, my years to his were equal, 485 
Pull shortly should he take or yield the primacy of valour." 

He spake : then all of them, one soul within their bosom holding, 
Closing their rank, stood side by side, with shield aslant on shoulder. 
iEneias on the other side to his own comrades shouted : 

To Paris and Deiphobus and brave Agenor looking, 490 

Who leaders were of Troians : but after each, the people 
Eollow'd, as doth behind the tup the flock from pasture follow 
To seek the water, giving joy unto the shepherd's bosom. 

So likewise in iEneias' heart the secret soul was joyful, 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 229 

When he the crowd of people saw, which companied behind him. 495 

Then they around Alcathoiis for mell of combat sallied 
With lengthy pikes ; and direfully the brass upon their bosoms 
Battled, as each at other hurl'd within the crowd. Among them 
Two war-abidiDg champions, pre-eminent of valour, 

iEneias and Idomeneus, in weight a match to Ares, 500 

Hanker'd with ruthless brass to gash the body, each of other. 
And first against Idomeneus his spear iEneias darted. 

The Cretan saw it opposite, and stoop'dto shun its fury : 

Then far behind him in the earth iEneias' spear was planted, 
Strong quivering; and fruitlessly his sturdy armimpell'd it. 505 
In turn Idomeneus must hit (Enomaiis : the weapon 

Bending the corslet's hollow, pierc'd his lap, and drain'd his vitals : 
So in the dust he fell, the earth with gripe convulsive clutching. 
Quick did Idomeneus regain the spear with lengthy shadow 

Out of the corpse ; yet might not he tear off the beauteous armour 510 
From shoulders of the dead ; for sore the javelins distress'd him. 
Much had the sinews of his feet already lost their freshness, 
Whether to sally for his spear, or shun the foe's encounter : 
And tho' in standing-fight he well the rueful moment warded, 
No longer nimble were his limbs in battle-race to scurry. 515 

While he retreated step by step, Deiphobus (who alway 
Against him deep resentment kept) his shining weapon darted : 
But miss'd Idomeneus again, and struck the son of Ares, 

Ascalaphus. The weighty spear ran keenly thro' his shoulder : 
So in the dust he fell, the earth with gripe convulsive clutching. 520 
Nor direful Enyalius, rude shouting, yet had learned, 

How that his offspring dear was slain amid the hardy struggle. 
But underneath the golden clouds upon Olympus' summit 
He, by the will of Jupiter encag'd, was idly sitting, 

As eke the other deathless gods, debarr'd from war's alarum. 525 

But those around Ascalaphus for mell of combat sallied. 
Already had Deiphobus the dead man's shining helmet 

Caught up, when eager Merion, an equipoise to Ares, 
Bush'd at him, wounding with the spear his arm. With hollow tinkle 
520. Enyalius, a rarer name for Ares. 



230 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Out of his hand then fell to earth the triple- crested vizor. 530 

A second time Meriones on darting, like a vulture, 

Eegain'd the weighty spear, from where, near to the wrist, he fix'd it ; 
Then back unto his comrade troop withdrew. Thereat Polites, 
Own brother to Deiphobus, his arms around him spreading, 

Out of the harshly roaring war led him, until they reached 535 

His speedy coursers, which in rear, beyond the throng of battle, 
Stood, with the much- wrought chariot and charioteer behind them. 
These to the city carried him, outworn and deeply groaning, 
While fromhis newly wounded wrist big drops of crimson trickled. 

The rest no pause of combat made, but clamour rose incessant. 540 
First with sharp-pointed javelin iEneias leaping forward 
Smote Aphareus, Caletor's son, upon his adverse weazand. 
Thereat to one side drooped he his head : the buckler follow'd 
And helmet after it : so him soul-crushing Death enshrouded. 

Meanwhile, as Thoon turn'd aside, Antilochus awaiting 545 

With sudden sabre leapt on him, and shear'd away the sinews, 
Which, running upward from the back, about the neck are gather'd. 
All these did he clean shear away : then into dust the Troian 
Fell on his back, and spread abroad both hands unto his comrades. 
On sped Antilochus, and quick the armour from his shoulders 550 
Would strip, with widely glancing gaze. The Troians, spread in circle, 
Goaded from every side with spears his broad and motley buckler, 
Yet might not reach Antilochus, to graze with ruthless weapon 
His tender skin behind it screen'd : for-that land-shaking Neptune, 
Even amid the storm of darts, the son of Nestor rescued. 555 

No lack of foemen fronted him, yet eye to eye he fac'd them, 
Nor for a moment steady held his spear ; but wreath'd and threaten'd 
This way and that, unceasingly ; and in his heart was aiming 
Either some distant foe to hit, or close in nearer struggle. 

While thus forefencing to assault the crowd, he drew the notice 560 
Of Adamas Asiades, who, rushing close for combat, 

Thrust at the middle of his shield : but purple-haired Neptune, 
Grudging him longer days of life, his pointed weapon blunted. 
It, like a stake fire-harden'd, snapt, and half of it was fasten'd 
In buckler of Antilochus, but half on earth was splinter'd. 565 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 231 

Then back lie to his comrade-troop, avoiding fate, retreated, 

But fronted still the foe. Thereat Meriones pursuing 

With spear beneath the navel pierc'd his lowest lap, where chiefly 

Freighted with anguish Ares is to miserable mortals. 

Then forward falling round the spear his body leapt and struggled, 570 

As struggleth on the mountain wide a bull, whom peasant cowherds 

Have with the thongs of nooses bound, and lead away unwilling : 

So for a little while, not long, struggled the prostrate hero ; 

Until the victor, coming close and stooping o'er his body, 

Pluck'd out the spear : but Adamas in darkness clos'd his eyen. 575 

Then with a mighty sword of Thrace on Deipyrus advancing, 
Did Helenus his temple smite, and cleft the crested helmet. 
To earth the triple crest was tost afar ; and some Achaian 
Eegain'd it, as it roll'd across amid the feet of fighters : 
Thereat the shades of Erebus round Deipyrus were poured. 580 

But Menelaiis, good at need*, Atrides, pierc'd with anguish, 

At Helenus, the hero-prince came rushing on with menace, 

Poising his pointed javelin. The foe, to circle straining 

His bow, defied him : so they met ; the one, to dart his weapon 
All eager; but the other drew his arrow on the bowstring. 585 
Therewith the son of Priam hit the hollow of the corslet 
Beneath his bosom ; but, repell'd, off flew the stinging arrow. 
As on an ample threshing-floor the dark-skinn'd beans or vetches 
From the broad sieve of winnowing beneath the active breezes 590 

Leap by the peasant's jerk ; so then, off flew the stinging arrow, 
Far from the corslet wandering of famous Menelaiis. 
But in the hand which held the bow well polish'd, Menelaiis 
The son of Atreus, good at need, his javelin implanted, 
Which pierc'd the hand right thro', until into the bow it enter'd. 595 
The Troian to his comrade-troop, Fate to avoid, retreated, 
And trail'd the ashen shaft along, with hand beside him dangling. 
But from his flesh quick pulling it, the mighty-soul'd Agenor 
Did gently bandage up the wound with wool of sheep well twisted, 
W T hich from a sling his ready squire tare for the people's shepherd. 600 

590. The winnowing sieve (or shovel) is embraced in the spread arms of a 
man, and jerked up and down. 



232 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Then straight ahead Peisander went at famous Menelaiis : 
For he by evil destiny to his last goal was hurried, 

By thee, Menelas, to die in grim embrace of foemen. 

When they to shorter distance came advancing each on other, 
The son of Atreus miss'dhis mark, the weapon sideway glancing. 605 
Peisander did the buckler goad of famous Menelatis, 
Nor might his utmost force avail right thro' to drive the weapon ; 
For the broad bullhide warded it, and close above the metal 
His shaft was snapt : but he in heart rejoic'd, and hop'd for conquest. 
Thereat, the son of Atreus drew his sword with silver studded, 610 
And leapt upon Peisander : he, beneath his buckler crouching, 
Wielded a shining axe of brass, with haft of olive-timber, 
Lengthy, well polish'd : so thetwaintogether came for combat. 
The Troian struck the topmost ridge of the horse-twisted helmet 
Under the plume : above the nose, the other smote the forehead 615 
Of his advancing foe : forthwith the skull and gristle crackled, 
And low before his feet in dust fell both his gory eyen. 
Then writhing dropt he ; but with heel upon his bosom treading, 
Atrides did his armour strip and boastfully exulted : 

" Ye over-foaming Troians, gluttons of direful onset ! 620 

Troth, thus shall ye the galleys leave of charioteering Argives. 
Other disgrace and infamy abundant on you resteth, 

For all the outrage, which on me, O evil hounds ! ye lavish'd, 
Nor trembled at the bitter ire of Jupiter loud-rumbling, 
The god of strangers ; who shall soon your lofty city ravage : 625 

ye, who, welcom'd once by me and by my wedded consort, 
Did rudely carry her away and eke much gear beside her. 

And now, methinketh, hanker ye on the sea-coursing galleys 
To scatter fiery ravages and slay the Achaian heroes. 

Yet, howso eager, here or there will ye from Ares stay you. — 630 
Jove, our Father ! thee in sooth they call supreme of wisdom 
Mid gods and mortals ; yet from thee do all these doings issue : 
For-that thou dost indulgence show to men who deal in outrage, — 
To Troians, whose spirit aye atrocious is ; nor can they 

In heat of war all-levelling be satiate with uproar. 635 

Of all things is satiety ; — of slumber and of fondness, 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 233 

And of sweet tones melodious and chaste delight of dancing ; 
All which doth every man, I trow, with keener relish follow 
Than fighting ; yet the Troians are insatiate of battle." 

Such vauntings utter'd o'er the slain, the spotless Menelaiis 640 
Stript from his skin the bloody arms and gave them to his comrades; 
But he himself again went forth, and with the foremost mingled. 
The son of king Pylsemenes then suddenly assail'd him, 

Harpalion, who came to Troy for fellowship of warfare 

Behind his father dear ; — nor e'er his native land regained ; — 645 
Who with a thrust of spear would pierce the buckler of Atrides : 
Nor might his utmost force avail right thro' to drive the weapon. 
Then back he to his comrade troop, Fate to avoid, retreated, 
Round glancing cautious, lest some dart alighting reach his body. 
As he withdrew him, Merion sent forth a brazen arrow, 650 

And in the right haunch planted it ; but thro' and thro', the arrow 
Under the bone a passage found and reach'd into the bladder. 
Down on the spot he sank, in hands of his beloved comrades 
Breathing his spirit forth, and lay -like to a worm extended, 
And with the dusky- streaming gore the earth beneath him wetted. 655 
Around his body minist'ring with hearts by anguish smitten, 

The lofty-soul'd Paphlagones on to a car did lift him, 

And drave to sacred Ilium : beside them hied his father, 

Melted in tears, nor forfeiture won for his slaughter'd offspring. 

Then bitterly was Paris stung, for-that the slain had often 660 
Cheer'd him in Paphlagonia with hospitable welcome : 

So, for his host indignant, forth he shot a brazen arrow. — 
A man there was, both rich and good, who held his home at Corinth, 
And, well foreseeing deadly fate, embark'd upon his galley. 665 

Oft was he warned by his sire, the prudent Polyeidus, 
A seer, — that he by dire disease would perish in his chambers, 
Or by the Troians be subdued amid the Achaian galleys. 
Of these the latter would he choose, and shunn'd the heavy forfeit 
Onlaid by Argos, and the griefs of heart-consuming sickness. 670 
Him did the arrow strike betwixt the ear and jaw ; and quickly 
Out of his members life was flown, and hateful darkness hent him. 
666. Polyeidus means " much-knowing." 



234 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

While thus, in guise of blazing fire, the combatants were raging, 
Not yet had Hector, dear to Jove, espied, nor learnt the tiding, 
That here, upon the galleys' left, his people by the Argives 675 

Were ravag'd ; yea, and haply eke much glory had the Achaians 
Won, when the great land shaking god with his ownstrength endued them. 
For Hector stay'd, where he at first had pass'd the gates and rampart 
Amid the shielded Danai, their thick battalions breaking -680 

Where by the hoary billow's edge Protesilas and Ajax 
Had drawn aloft their galleys : here the wall was lowest builded, 
For-that here chiefly men and steeds were staunch and wight for battle. 
On one side the Boeotians and Locrians and Phthians, 685 

And trailing-rob'd Ionians and gallant-soul'd Epeians 

Scarcely had puissance to repel the rush of godlike Hector, 
When, like an onward-spreading flame, he dash'd toward the galleys. 
There, foremost of the Athenians, a chosen band was posted, 
Led by the son of Peteos, Menestheus : but behind him 690 

Mov'd bonny Bias, Stichius, and Pheidas. O'er th' Epeians 

Amphion stood, and Drachius, and Meges son of Phyleus ; 
But o'er the Phthians Medon and Podarkes war-abiding. 
(Medon to Ajax brother was ; their sire, divine Oileus : 

But Medon was of meaner birth, and dwelt afar, as exile, 695 

Long time in Phylake ; for he whilom had slain a hero, 
A kinsman of his father's bride his stepdame Eriopis. 
But father to Podarkes was Iphiclus, son of Phylax.) 

These twain, accoutred well, before the mighty-hearted Phthians, 
Along with the Boeotians fought to defend the galleys. 700 

Meanwhile Oileus' other son, the nimble Ajax, stirr'd not 

Prom Ajax son of Telamon, for e'en a scanty moment. 

But as two purple-hided steers, possess'd by equal spirit, 
Strain at the stoutly-framed plough on acres freshly broken, 
And round the bottom of their horns the sweat uprising trickles ; 705 
And nothing but the polish'd yoke the pair asunder parteth 
Struggling within the furrow, which doth mark the field in outline : 
So they advancing side by side did each the other succour. 
Behind the son of Telamon his comrade people follow'd, 

686. The inhabitants of all Attica seem to be meant by the Ionians, 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 235 

Many and gallant, who in turn his weighty shield supported, 710 
Whene'er his knees out wearied with toil and sweat might stagger. 
But round Oileus' noble son no Locrians then follow'd, 

Nor might their courage firm abide amid the standing struggle : 
For brazen helmets none had they with crest of horsetail shaggy, 
Nor bare they shields orbicular and ashen-shafted lances; 715 

But they, on arrow-shooting bow and wool of sheep well twisted 
Eeliant, unto Ilium had come ; with these thereafter 

Thick darting, they discomfited ' the Troian battalions. 
So with one band the leaders then in front, with curious armour, 
Dealt battle to the Troians and brazen-helmed Hector; 720 

The others shower'd from behind by stealth ; nor did the foemen 
Eemember hero-glee ; for sore the arrowshots bestraught them. 

Then from the galleys and the tents haply with sad disaster 
Back unto windy Ilium the Troians had retreated ; 

But, standing by bold Hector's side, Polyclamas address'd him : 725 

" Hector ! untraceable art thou to listen to persuasion. 
For-that to thee supremely God hath deeds of battle given, 
Therefore in counsel wouldest thou take mastery of others ; 
Yet not in every kind at once mayest thyself be foremost. 

For unto one man chiefly God hath deeds of battle given, 730 
A second in the dance has skill, a third with lyre and chantings : 
Within the bosom of a fourth hath Jupiter wide-sighted 

Planted high wisdom, whence accrues welfare to many mortals ; 
Which eke has cities sav'd ; and Jove himself supremely hath it. 
But I my counsel will avow, as best to me it seemeth. 735 

For, compassing thee everywhere, a wreath of battle flameth : 
And of our mighty-hearted host, sithence they pass'd the rampart, 
Some with their weapons hold aloof; others, beside the galleys 
Hither and thither scatter' d, fight few against foemen many. 
But thou, retiring, hither quick do all the bravest summon. 740 
Thereafter, we right earnestly the whole design would ponder, 

Whether in plump to fall upon the many- benched galleys, 
If God may haply victory on us bestow ; or quickly 

Now from the galleys to return unharm'd. For I with terror 
Quake, lest their debt of yesterday the Achaians repay us ; 745 



236 THE ILIAD. [book xiii. 

Sith by their galleys, now, a mail insatiate of battle 

Abideth ; nor (I ween) will he refrain him from the combat." 

Thus sagely spake Polydamas, and won the heart of Hector; 
Who straightway from his chariot leapt to the ground in armtfur, 
And, hastily accosting him, did winged accents utter : 750 

" Polydamas ! here on the spot detain thou all our bravest. 
Thitherward I myself will wend, and take my share of battle, 
But hither quick will I return, when duly I have charg'd them." 

He spake ; then as a raging bird onward the hero darted 
With piercing scream, and flew across amid the allies and Troians. 755 
But they, when Hector's voice they heard, did all, with eager hurry, 
To kindly-soul'd Polydamas, Panthoiis' son, betake them. 

But he amid the foremost ranks mov'd through, with earnest purpose, 
Seeking for prince Deiphobus and Helenus his brothers, 

And Adamas, and Asius the chieftain from Arisba. 760 

But them no longer might he find unwounded or unslaughter'd. 
For some already prostrate lay beside the outmost galleys 
Bereaved of their tender lives beneath the hands of Argos : 

Some were within the rampart, pierc'd by stab or flying weapon. 
Yet did he speedily descry the godlike Alexander, 765 

Lord of the brighthair'd Helen, near the left of tearful battle. 
Cheering the comrades at his side, and stirring them to combat. 
But Hector, when he close was come, with words of scorn address'd him: 

" Ill-omen'd Paris ; fair of face ! seducer ! woman-frenzied ! 
Where now are prince Deiphobus and Helenus thy brothers, 770 

And Adamas, and Asius the chieftain from Arisba? 

Whither is gone Othryoneus ? Now from the summit fallen 

Is lofty Ilium ; and thee bluff overthrow awaiteth." 

But thus responsively to him spake godlike Alexander : 
" Hector; sith-that thy will it is, even to blame the blameless, 775 
More likely were I otherwhile to start away from battle ; 
Nor did my mother Hecuba to be a dastard bear me. 

But constantly, sithence that thou beside the galleys rousest 

754. The Greek, instead of " raging bird," has " snowy mountain" ; which 
I cannot believe that Homer said. I have imagined ore'i niphoenti to be a cor- 
ruption of orneoi 



book xiii.] THE ILIAD. 237 

The war of thy companions, with Danai converse we 779 

Here on the spot. But those our friends are slain, of whom thou askest. 
Only the prince Deiphobus and Helenus our brothers 

Are from the combatants withdrawn, with lengthy lances wounded 
Both in the hand ; but deadly fate Saturnius hath warded. 
Now, whitherso thy heart and soul commandeth, thither lead me ; 
And we behind thee eagerly will follow ; nor shall courage, 785 

I trow, abandon me, so far as power may be present : 

But no man, howso eager, may *beyond his power combat." 

When thus the hero spake, the word his brother's heart persuaded ; 
Who onward mov'd, where chiefly was battle and whoop of tribesmen 
Around Kebriones, around Polydamas the spotless 790 

And Polyphetes match for gods and Phalkes and Orthaeus, 
Morys son of Hippotion, Ascanius and Palmys, 

Who on the former morn had come as substitutes of battle 
From loamy-soil'd Ascania : now Jove arous'd their courage. 

Then on rush'd they, with weight and mass like to a troublous whirlwind 
W T hich from the thundercloud of Jove down on the champaign plumpeth, 
And doth the briny flood bestir with an unearthly uproar : 
Then in the ever-brawling sea full many a billow splasheth, 
Hollow, and bald with hoary pate, one racing after other : 
So then the Troians closely wedg'd, one after other marching, 800 
Sparkling in brazen panoply, beside their leaders muster'd : 

And Hector, Priam's son, a peer for Ares, pest of mortals, 
Led them ; arid forward held his shield, which equal was on all sides, 
Compact with bull-hides : over them thick plates of brass were welded, 
And his resplendent helmet's plume around his temples nodded. 805 
This way and that he tried, amid the foeman's ranks advancing, 
If, as beneath his shield he mov'd, perchance they yield before him. 
Yet nowise daunted he the heart within the Achaian bosom ; 
But Ajax, proudly stepping forth, did foremost speak a challenge : 

" Oh elf-possessed ! nearer come ! why vainly wouldest frighten 810 
The Argive heroes ? not, in sooth, unskill'd are we in battle, 
But by the evil scourge of Jove awhile the Achaians suffer. 
And verily thy heart, I ween, for pillage of our galleys 

Hopeth ; but straightway eke to us are many hands to rescue. 



238 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

I plight, that earlier by far your thickly-peopled city 815 

Captur'd shall be and ravaged beneath the hands of Argos. 
Tea. to thyself, I say, 'tis near, when thou, in night escaping, 
Shalt prayer lift to Father Jove and other gods immortal, 
Swifter than falcon-flight to make the glossy-coated horses, 
Which, scurrying the dusty plain, shall bear thee to the city." 

While thus he boasted, from the right a lofty-sailing eagle, 
Brave augury, flew up : thereat Achaia's army shouted, 
Cheery to see the bird of Jove. Then answer'd gallant Hector : 

" Ajax, big vaunter, rash of speech ! what saying hast thou blurted ? 
Oh that to aegis-holding Jove so surely I were offspring, 825 

And queenly Juno gave me birth for days and years eternal, 
And I such honour met, as eke Athene and Apollo, 
Surely as doth the present day unto the Argive army 
Bear common ruin : mid the crowd shalt thou thyself be vanquish'd, 
If to await my lengthy spear thou venture, which shall mangle 830 
Thy lily skin ; and thou, subdued beside the Achaian galleys, 
With fatness of thy flesh shalt gorge the Troian dogs and vultures." 

Thus having spoke, he led the way : the multitude behind him 
Shouted aloud, and forward press'd with an unearthly clamour. 
From other side the Argives too did shout, nor were forgetful 835 
Of courage ; but awaited firm the bravest Troian onset. 
So to Jove's brilliant sether reach'd the noise of either army 



BOOK XIV. 

JN or might the winecup longer hide the nearer din from Nestor, 
Who unto Asclepiades did winged accents utter : 

" Godlike Machaon ! turn thy thought, how these affairs may issue. 
Louder along the galleys comes the shout of sturdy callants. 



book xiv.] THE ILIAD. 239 

Do thou then, sitting here, abide, the sparkling wine enjoying, 5 

Until the bath for thee be warm'd by bright-hair'd Hecamede : 
So shall thy skin right pleasantly from gore and filth be cleansed. 
I forth to glance around must go, and shortly thee revisit." . 

He spake, and seiz'd the sturdy shield of skilful Thrasymedes 
His courser-taming son ; which lay brilliant with brass beside him 10 
Within the tent : but Thrasymed his father's buckler carried. 
Then Nestor grasp'd a valiant spear, pointed with brass well temper'd, 
And sallied from the tent ; and straight he saw a work unseemly, — 
His gallant comrades driven hard, and the high-hearted Troians 
Eouting them from behind ; and down was cast the Achaian rampart. 15 
As when the mighty deep amid dumb surges is betossed, 
Eying, across the helpless calm, the distant-gliding courses 
Of shrilly whistling winds ; — in vain : for neither way it rolleth, 
Till some decisive wafting breeze from Jupiter deseendeth : 
So heav'd the aged hero's soul, distraught by double purpose, 20 
Whether among the crowd to go of charioteering Argives, 
Or to Atrides Agamemnon, shepherd of the people. 

After such pondering of thought, he deemed, it were wiser 
To seek Atrides : they, meanwhile, did one the other slaughter 
In adverse fight : and round their skin crackled the brass unyielding, 25 
As foemen foemen stabb'd with swords and with two-handed lances. 

Then the Jove-nurtur'd royal chiefs, who in the war were wounded, 
King Agamemnon Atreus' son, Ulysses, and Tydides, 
Returning from beside the ships met the advance of Nestor. 
Eor at far distance from the fight upon the strand their galleys 30 
Were from the hoary wave retir'd ; for these they hauled foremost 
On to the plain; and built in front close to their poop, the rampart. 
Nor might the margin of the beach, albeit it was ample, 
Hold all the Achaian galleys ; but the folk were closely straiten'd. 
Wherefore, with hulls alternate plac'd, poop beforepoop, they drew them, 
And fill'd the mighty depth of shore betwixt the outrunning headlands. 
But now the princes, fain to see the onset and the battle, 
Resting upon their lances came collected ; and their bosom, 
Heaving with grief, felt new dismay at sight of aged Nestor. 40 

To him with earnest utterance spake royal Agamemnon : 



240 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

" Nestor, Neleus' progeny ! great glory of the Achaians ! 
Why hither com'st, abandoning the hero-wasting battle ? 
I tremble lest dire Hector crown that saying with fulfilment, 
Which he in full harangue to Troy against us whilom threaten'd, 45 
That back to Ilium would he no earlier betake him, 

Than he our galleys wrap in flame and slay ourselves beside them. 
So then haranguing threaten'd he ; which all is now approaching. 
Ye spirits ! do then others too of dapper-greav'd Achaians 
Foster against me in their heart fierce choler ; as Achilles ; 50 

Nor choose against the galley-poop to play their best in battle ?" 

To him in turn the charioteer Gerenian Nestor answer'd : 
" Ay, verily, these things do near o'erhang ; nor other issues 
May loudly rumbling Jupiter himself devise anent us. 

For prostrate in the dust is laid the wall, whereon we trusted 55 
Unto our galleys and ourselves to be a breachless bulwark. 
And now beside their very hulls the foeman's quenchless riot 
Blazeth abroad ; nor might thy gaze, albeit closely prying, 
Know, from which side the Achaianrout this way and that wayflounders : 
So are they slaughter' d in melay ; and din to heaven reacheth. 60 
Our part it is to ponder, how may these affairs be turned, 

If haply wisdom aught effect : but nowise would I counsel 
Yourselves to enter war ; for vain the battle of the wounded." 

Then Agamemnon, prince of men, to him in turn responded : 
" Nestor, sith the Troian fray our galleys' poop invadeth, 65 

Nor hath the moat availed us, nor the high-builded rampart, 
For which the Danai amain did toil, and fondly fancied 

It to our galleys and ourselves to be a breachless bulwark ; 
So seemeth it the will to be of Jupiter o'ermatching, 

That far from Argos, shorn of fame, the Achaians here should perish. 70 
For well I knew, when zealously the Danai he favour'd : 
So now again know I, that he the Troian host exalteth 
As peers of blessed gods, but ties the hands and might of Argos. 
But come! as I the word shall speak,let all compliant follow. 
Down to the briny flood divine over the margin drag we 75 

And launch the galleys, whichsoe'er unto the sea are nearest, 
And moor them to the mooringstones aloft, till Night immortal 



book xiv.] THE ILIAD. 241 

Arrive ; if haply in her gloom the Troians from battle 
May stay them : instantly would we then launch the inmost galleys, 
And flee with all : for shame is none, even by night to save us : 80 

For better 'tis, by flight to scape, than be by mischief hended." 

To him with frowning glance replied Ulysses much devising : 
" Betwixt the outwork of thy teeth what word hath slipt, Atrides ? 
Infatuate ! oh that thou wert lord to some other army 

Of sorry wretches ! not to us, for whom hath Jove, methinketh, 85 

Destin'd, from manhood's early dawn, even to eld, to ravel 
Distressful wars beside thee, till we every one shall perish. 
Art thou thus eager then to leave the ample-streeted city 
Of Troy, in sake of which we here much misery have suffer'd ? 
Hush thee, prince ! lest other folk among the Achaians hear it, — 90 
A word, with wliich no man at all within his lips would dally, 
Wfeo knoweth counsel suitable from out his heart to utter, 
And is a sceptre-holding King to whom so many peoples 
Loyal submission yield, as thou amid the Argives reignest. 
Now utterly disparage I thy judgment, how thou speakest : 

Who, when encompassed we are with war and din of battle, 96 

Biddest, the galleys tightly-deck'd to launch ; whereby the Troians, 
Muster'd already with success, shall gain their wishes double, 
But upon us shall ruin fall headlong : for when the galleys 

Seaward ye drag, the Achaian host will not withstand the combat, 100 
But starting backward, gazearound, for glee of battle palsied. 
So will thy counsel baleful be, chieftain of the peoples." 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, then spake to him responsive: 
" Ulysses ! troth ! thy bitter word lasheth my heart ; but never 
^leant I, against their will to bid the children of Achaia 105 

Into the briny flood to launch their tightly-decked galleys. 
Now, may the man be found, to speak some other counsel better ! 
Whether he young or old might be, to me it were a pleasure." 

Then Diomedes, good at need, spake forth his w 7 ord among them : 
"Near is the man, not far to seek, if ye to hear be willing, 110 

Nor grudge and wonder, for-that I am youngest-born among you. 
I too a noble pedigree . do vaunt, and noble father, 

Tydeus; whom in Cadmeian Thebes a heaped barrow hideth. 

16 



242 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

For unto Portheus were of yore three spotless sons begotten, 115 

Who dwelt o'er high iEtolia, in Calydon and Pleuron ; 

Melas and Agrius, but third was charioteering Oeneus, 

Sire of my sire, who rnid them all most signal was of valour. 

He in his native land abode ; but roaming thence, my father 

Rested in Argos ; — so, I ween, did Jove and other powers 120 

Decide. In wedlock there he held a daughter of Adrastus. 

So dwelt he in a wealthy home, and plentiful his acres 

Teeming with wheat ; and many were his rows of planted orchards, 

Many his flocks of sheep : but how he with the spear was foremost 

In all Achaia, — this, I trow, from none of you is hidden. 125 

W herefore, ye may not call my breed ignoble and unmanly, 

Or scorn upon the counsel cast, which prudently I utter. 

Come ! enter we the war ! perforce ; albeit we are wounded : 

Let us, beyond the reach of darts, therein from fray of foemen 

Ourselves abstain, lest haply one by wound on wound be stricken. 

But yet, new courage may we breathe in others ; who, indulging 

A languid spirit, stand aloof nor stir themselves for valour." 

He spake ; and they all willingly did listen and obey him : 
Forward they hied, and in their front mov'd royal Agamemnon. 
Nor was a fruitless outlook kept by the renown'd Landshaker. 135 
In semblance of an aged man he follow 'd in their footstep, 

And, by the right hand grasping tight Atrides Agamemnon, 
With an address of courtesy did winged accents utter : 

" O son of Atreus ! now, I ween, Achilles' bosom swelleth 
With deadly gladness, whilst he views Achaian flight and carnage ; 140 
Sith of right judgment, in his heart, no shred at all abideth. 
Now perish may he, as he is, and righteous Heaven maim him ! 

Yet against thee the blessed gods not yet are wrathful wholly ; 
But troth ! the Troian leaders still and governours shall scuffle 
Over the dusty breadth of plain : and thou thyself shalt see them 145 
Fleeing to reach their city-wall, far from the tents and galleys." 

So saying, mightily he yell'd, over the plain advancing. 
For, — loud as thousands nine or ten of men who shout for battle, 
Closing in Ares' strife, — such voice did the Landshaking ruler 150 
Out of his breast send forth : and shed in each Achaian bosom 



book xiv.] THE ILIAD. 243 

Vigour immense, unceasingly to toil in war and combat. 

Then, standing on Olympus' brink, did golden-throned Juno 
Gazing descry amid the throng of man-ennobling combat 155 

Jove's brother and her own employ'd ; and in her soul was joyful : 
But Jove upon the highest top of rill-bestreamed Ida 
Seated beheld she, and the sight was to her heart distasteful. 
Then doubtful plannings stirr'd the mind of large-ey'd queenly Juno, 
How might she best delusion frame for Jove the segis-holder. 160 

Then to her meditative thought this counsel wisest seemed : — 
Into her fairest guise bedeck'd, to show herself on Ida ; 
If, kindled by her brilliancy, his heart might haply covet 

Love's nearer pressure ; then would she with warm and gentle slumber 
His eyelids overcloud, and dim the keenness of his prudence. 165 
So to her chamber hurried she, which her beloved offspring 
Vulcan had fashion'd, closing fast the panels to the doorposts 
With lock mysterious, the which no god but she might open. 
There entering, the shining doors she clos'd ; then first with waters 
Ambrosial, her lovely skin she cleans'd from all defilement, 

Ointed with oil ambrosial, which for herself was mingled 

With daintiness of fragrance rich, and, on the brazen pavement 
Of Jove set free, cast wide its scent to earth and ends of heaven. 
Herewith her fair skin ointed she, and comb'd and featly braided, 175 
Streaming from that immortal head, the bright ambrosial tresses. 
Then, wrapt in gauze ambrosial, which for the queen of heaven 
Athene as a sampler wrought with broideries uncounted, 

With golden brooches fasten'd she the vestment of her bosom, 180 
And in a girdle girded her with hundred fringes fitted. 

Next, through her ears' well-pierced flaps she pass'd the curious jewels, 
Three -ey'd and piec'd of many a stone; from which much beauty glisten'd. 
Above, — divine of goddesses, — with head-attire resplendent 
New-fashion 'd, she accoutred her: like to a sun its glory. 185 

Lastly, beneath her glossy feet she bound the dainty sandals. 
When thus around her tender skin she all her gear had fitted, 
Forth from the bower hasted she, and, calling Aphrodite 
Apart from other gods, to her a winning word she utter'd : 

" Wouldest thou, dearest child, comply, if I some favour ask thee ? 190 



244 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

Or scornful wilt thou haply be, this in thy mind resenting, 
For-that I aid the Danai and thou the Troians aidest?" 

To her in words responsive spake Jove's daughter Aphrodite : 
" Juno, venerable queen, daughter of mighty Saturn, 

Speak forth thy meaning : me my heart to complishment exhorteth, 195 
If complish it I can, and if such purpose complish'dhave been." 

Then guileful-heartedly to her spake venerable Juno : 
" Give now that loveliness to me and charms, whereby thou swayest 
Over all mortal men, and eke over the gods immortal. 

For I, on visit to the ends of Earth the many-feeder, 200 

Wend unto Ocean, source of gods, and unto mother Tethys, 
Who in their own halls nurtur'd me, receiving me from Ehea, 
Kindly ; what time widesighted Jove set low the abode of Saturn 
Beneath the Earth's expanse, beneath the cropless Ocean's bottom. 
To these on visit go I now, to end their hopeless quarrel. 205 

Eor they long time withholden are from fondness and embraces, 
Each sundered from other; sith rage on their soul hath fallen. 
If I by words and blandishment might oversway their temper, 
And join them in the rightful bed of ancient endearments, 
Alway should I by them be held at once belov'd and awful." 210 

Then Aphrodite, queen of smiles, accosted her responsive : 
" Thy counsel to reject, I find nor possible nor seemly ; 
Eor in Jove's bosom restest thou, who noblest is and greatest." 

Thus saying, from around her breast the broider'd belt she loosen'd, 
All-curious; inwrought for her with manifold bewitchment. 215 
In it was fondness, in it charm, and in it gentle whisper, 
Eight winsome ; which hath stolen oft the wisdom e'en of sages, 
This into Juno's hand she gave, and spake, her name pronouncing : 
"Here ! in thy bosom place the belt complex : and troth ! I reckon 220 
Within it all thy wish is wrought, nor vain shall be thy errand." 

So answer' d she, and drew a smile from large-ey'd queenly Juno, 
Who smiling took from her the belt and in her bosom plac'd it. 
Straightway unto her chamber went Jove's daughter Aphrodite ; 
Bat Juno, hasting on her path, Olympus' margin quitted. 225 

Over Emathia's lovely land along Pieria wending, 

She to the snowy mountains sped of Thrake's horseman people, 



book xiv.] THE ILIAD. 245 

Above the summits ; nor was Earth, imprinted with her footstep. 
From Athos' height descended she amid the swelling billows, 
And lighted upon Lemnos' isle, estate of godlike Thoas. 230 

Here, in his proper dwelling-place, Death's brother, Slumber, met she, 
And closely did she press his hand, and spake, his name pronouncing : 

"0 Slumber, lord of all the gods ! lord of the race of mortals ! 
If ever didst thou heretofore to my entreaty hearken, 

Now too obey me : and to thee all days will I be grateful. 235 

Beneath the brows of Jupiter close thou the beaming eyen, 

So soon as by his side I lie in dalliance of fondness. 

Then I a throne to thee will give, for ever undecaying, 
Golden and fair ; which my own son, the doubly-dextrous Yulcan, 
By art shall fabricate, and eke a footstool place beneath it, 240 

Which to thy dainty feet shall yield delightsome rest in banquet." 

Then balmy Slumber timidly accosted her responsive : 
" Juno, venerable queen, daughter of mighty Saturn, 

Other of gods eternal-born full lightly might I fetter ; 245 

Yea, even river Ocean's flow, who Source is held of all things. 

But I to Jove Saturnius never might nearer venture, 

Nor lull him into slumber, save when he himself might bid me. 
Ay ! for thy urgency of yore a sager lesson taught me ; 

What time that haughty-hearted son of Jupiter was sailing 250 

From Ilium, and left behind the Troian city ravag'd. 

Then did I overcloud the mind of Jove the aegis-holder, 
Shed balmy round him • thou meanwhile his son in mischief caughtest, 
Arousing o'er the widespread main the noisome blore of tempests : 
So thou to thickly-peopled Cos diddest the hero carry, 255 

Afar from all his friends. But Jove awaking was indignant, 
And in disorder tost the gods along his hall : but chiefly 

Me sought he, and from heavenhigh had hurl'd me lost in ocean ; 
But Night, who tameth gods and men, to whom I fled for rescue, 
Eeceiv'd me : then his hand he stay'd, (albeit sore his anger,) 260 

In honour to swift-rushing Night, and shunning to displease her. 
And now this other featless toil thou urgest me to complish." 

To him thereat reciprocal spake large-ey'd queenly Juno ■ 

" O Slumber ! why within thy breast so sad remembrance ponder ? 



246 THE ILIAD. [book xiv, 

Deemest, widesfghted Jupiter such succour unto Troians 265 
Giveth, as he for Heracles, his proper son, was anger'd ? 

But hearken further ! I to thee one of the younger Graces 
Behight for wedlock's joyances, and to be call'd thy partner, 
Pasithea, for whom thy heart thro' many a year doth hanker." 

Then Slumber, kindled with delight, accosted her responsive : 270 
,, Come then, and swear to me by Styx, inviolable water ! 
And of thy hands lay thou the one on Earth the many-feeder, 
The other on the sparkling sea ; that all the deathless powers, 
Who sit with Saturn under Earth, betwixt us twain be witness ; 
To me thou verily shalt give one of the younger Graces, 275 

Pasithea, for whom my heart thro' many a year doth hanker." 

" He spake, nor uncompliant found the white-arm'd goddess Juno ; 
But as he bade, she sware the oath, and every god rehearsed 
Under the deep of Tartarus, who hold the name of Titans. 

After she had perform'd to swear and all the oath was ended, 280 
Then, leaving Lemnos' peopled seat and Imbros, on they darted, 
With mist as garment wrapping them, a speedy course achieving. 
So unto Ida rill-bestream'd, parent of game, arriv'd they, 

At Lectus ; where they quitted first the sea, and after journey'd 
Over the dry, and neath their feet the topmost forest bended. 285 
Here Slumber pausing tarried, ere Jove's eyen might descry him ; 
Therefore he mounted on a fir high-soaring, which on Ida 
Thro' the low air grew tapering, and unto heaven pierced. 
Snug in the branches of the fir a seat of shelter found he, 
In form not other than the bird, which skirling on the mountains 
Is Ckalkis by the immortals call'd, but men the nighthawk call it. 291 

But Juno unto Gargarus, the top of lofty Ida, 

Swiftly advanc'd; and Jupiter the cloud-collector saw her. 
Nor sooner on her gaz'd, than love his closest bosom enter'd 
In-pouring, even as when he his first embrace of fondness 295 

Adventur'd, in the stolen bed, from their dear parents hidden. 
So there confronting her he stood, and spake, her name pronouncing : 

" Juno ! with what so urgent thought down from Olympus hastest, 
Nor here stand ready for thy feet tby chariot and horses ?" 
268. BeMgJit, i. e., name, stipulate, promise. 



BOOK XIV.] 



THE ILIAD. 



247 



Then guileful-heartedly to hiru spake venerable Juno ; 300 

" I now, on visit to the ends of Earth the many-feeder, 

Wend unto Ocean, source of gods, and unto mother Tethys, 
Who in their own halls vvelcom'd me with kindly cares and nurture. 
To these on visit go I now, to end their hopeless quarrel. 

For they long time withholden are from fondness and embraces, 305 
Each sundered from other ; sith rage on their soul hath fallen. 



But on an outmost under-knoll 
Tarry my coursers, which career 
But thy approval to ensure, 
Lest-that hereafter thou with me 
I journey to the ample halls 
Thereat to her reciprocal 
" Juno, thither mayest thou 
But come, in dear companionship 
For never yet did love so much 
Flooding my very soul within, 
Not even when Ixion's spouse 
Who bare to me Peirithoiis, 
Or when the taper-ankled wench, 
Who royal Perseus bare to me, 
Or when Europa, maiden-imp 



of rill-bestreamed Ida 

o'er foodful lea or water. 

down from Olympus haste I, 

be wrathful, if in silence 310 

of deeply-flowing ocean." 

spake Jove the cloud-collector : 

as well hereafter journey : 

upon the couch repose we. 

of goddess or of woman, 315 

around and thro', subdue me : 

my wiser senses ravish'd, 

a peer to gods in counsel ; 

Argive Acrisione, 

among all heroes signal; 320 

of far-renown'd Phoenix, 



Who Khadamanthys, match for gods, to me brought forth, and Minos ; 



Or when, in Thebe, Semele 
The latter gave me Heracles, 
The former Dionysus bare, 
Nor did the dainty-braided queen, 
Nor glorious Latona's form, 
As now I am on fire for thee, 
Then guileful-heartedly to him 



and sage Alcmena held me : — 

a stalwart-hearted offspring, 

a joy to weary mortals. 325 

Persephoneia's mother, 

nor thy own self, bewitch me, 

and sweetly captive taken." 

spake venerable Juno : 



O son of Saturn, grim and dire, what saying hast thou blurted ? 330 



319. Acrisione, i. e. daughter of Acrisius ; Danae. 
321. Phoenix, — or, the Phoenician; called Agenor by later poets. 
326. Persephoneia, the same name as Proserpina of the Latins. Her mother 
is Demeter, — Ceres. 



248 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

If now in dear companionship thou hanker to entrance us 
Upon the tops of Ida, where all things are wide and open, 

Say, what if haply some among the gods of birth eternal 
Espy us twain asleep, and haste to bruit the rumour widely 
Unto all gods ? never would I back to thy palace trust me, 335 
Uprising from that bed: in sooth, the argument were scandal. 
But if thy will be thus, and if such longings draw thy fancy, 

Thou hast a chamber of thy own, which thy beloved offspring 
Vulcan hath fashion'd, closing fast the panels to the doorposts. 
Thither go we to lie, sith now the bed to thee is pleasing." 340 

Then cloud- collecting Jupiter accosted her responsive : 
" Juno, fear not thou at all, lest god or man behold us. 
In such a golden cloud will I thickly around enwrap thee, 

Thro' it no ray of sun shall pierce, whose eye of all is sharpest." 345 

So speaking, Jove with both his arms enclasp'd his proper consort. 
Beneath their forms creative Earth new tender herbage sprouted, — 
The lotus, fraught with juicy dew, — crocus and hyacinthus, — 
In masses thick and soft, which them afar from hard earth parted. 
Hereon repos'd the twain : above, a cloud of gold was woven, 350 
All-glorious ; and from it dews dript glittering upon them. 

So then on highest Gargarus the Eather rested tranquil, 
By sleep and tenderness beguil'd ; and clasp'd in arms his partner. 
Then quickly balmy Slumber hied, to reach the Achaian galleys, 
Sent upon errand to the god landshaking Earth-encircling ; 355 

And standing close in front of him did winged accents utter : 

" Now Neptune ! to the Danai right zealous succour bear thou. 
While Jove on Ida sleepeth yet, on them bestow a glory, 
Short though it be ; for soft and deep have I on him descended ; 
Eor by endearments Juno hath to guileful bed enchain'd him." 360 

So spake he, and departing sought the noble tribes of mortals. 
But Neptune more than ever burn'd the Danai to succour, 
And mid the foremost ranks straightway forth leaping, loud exhorted : 

" Argives, do we yield anew to Hector, son of Priam, 
Power, the galleys to destroy and earn excelling glory ? 365 

And verily so speaketh he and vauntetb, sith Achilles 

Beside the smoothly hollow ships, enrag'd at heart, abideth. 



book xiv.] THE ILIAD. 249 

Yet no too keen regret of him shall be, if we the others 

Do each to mutual support duly bestir his fellows. 

But come ! as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow. 370 

Whatever bucklers in the host are sturdiest and biggest, 

These let the strongest heroes take ; then, with resplendent helmets 

Screening their heads, and in their hands the longest weapons grasping, 

Onward ! but I myself will lead : nor Hector, son of Priam, 

I deem shall longer hold his ground, albeit fierce his purpose. 375 

Also, whoe'er is stout to fight, but wieldeth on his shoulder 

Puny equipment, he forthwith should to a weaker yield it." 

He spake; and they all willingly did listen and obey him. 
Then quickly did the kings themselves, albeit wounded, marshal, — 
Tydides and Ulysses and Atrides Agamemnon ; 380 

Who, passing in review thro' all, exchanged their martial armour. 
Good warriours good arms put on, and worse to worser yielded. 
So when their skin in dazzling brass accoutred was, thereafter 
They hied to speed them : at their head stood tower-quaking Neptune, 
Wielding within his breadth of grasp a long-edg'd direful weapon, 385 
Which, like to lightning, flash'd abroad : nor yet in gramsome quarrel 
May it commingle for assault ; but fear withholdeth mortals. 

The Troians, them on other side did gallant Hector marshal. 
Hector and Neptune purple-haired battle's grim tangle lengthen'd, 390 
To either army bearing aid, — to Troians or to Argives. 
The surging billows rose aloft unto the tents and galleys 
Of Argos : then with vast uproar did both the hosts encounter. 
Nor on the pebbly beach so much the wave of ocean roareth, 
When Boreas with savage breath out of the deep doth drive it; 395 
Nor hooteth fiery-blazing flame within a mountain's hollows, 
So loudly, when it riseth fierce the forest to enkindle ; 
Nor wind, which in its hour of wrath is mightiest of bluster, 
Unto the lofty leaf-hair'd oaks such altercation screameth ; 
Such, aa was then the voice abroad from Troians and Achaians, 400 
When each upon the other rush'd with terrible alarum. 

Then gallant Hector darted first with shining spear at Ajax, 
Who straight before him fronting stood; nor failed he to hit him, 
Just where the double breadth of strap was cross'd around his bosom ; 



250 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

(Prom this the shield was hung, from that the silverstudded sabre ;) 405 
Which did his tender skin defend, together : then was Hector 
Enrag'd, that fruitless from his hand the weapon sharp had issued, 
And back he to his comrade troop retreated, Fate avoiding. 
But, as he yielded, after him great Telamonian Ajax 

Seeing the weighty stones which roll'd beside the feet of fighters, 410 
Many, to moor the galleys sharp ; with one of these, uplifted, 
Smote on his bosom, near the neck, above his buckler's margin ; 
And as a top is whhi'd around, so forcibly he whirl'd it. 
As by the stroke of father Jove an oak may topple headlong 
Uprooted, and intense from it the stench of brimstone riseth; 415 

So frightful is his thunderbolt ; — whoso beholdeth, quaileth : — 
Thus then fell sudden in the dust the sturdy might of Hector. 
Out of his hand he dropt the spear; on it the buckler follow'd 
And helmet; and around him clang'd his brass-belayed armour. 420 
Thereat with mighty skirling rush'd Achaia's children forward, 
Hoping to drag his body off; and thick their bolts they darted, 

In showers ; yet not one of them might reach the people's shepherd, 
Nor closely stab him ; for in front the bravest sooner crowded, 
^neias and Polydamas, and the divine Agenor, 425 

Sarpedon, prince of Lycians, and eke unblemish'd Glaucus. 

Nay, nor did any of the rest neglect him ; but before him 

They held their shields orbicular : meanwhile his dear companions 
With hands uplifting bare him out from moil ; until they reached 
His speedy coursers, which in rear, beyond the throng of battle, 430 
Stood, with the much-wrought chariot and charioteer behind them : 
These to the city carried him, outworn and deeply groaning. 

But when unto the ford they reach'd of the fair streaming river, 
Xanthus much-eddying, to whom immortal Jove was father, 
There from the chariot on earth they rested him, and o'er him 435 
Pour'd water: then he breath'd anew and gaz'd abroad, and rising 
On to his knees, from out his mouth much dusky gore he spouted. 
But soon again back on to earth he sank, and dark night cover'd 
His wilder'd eyen ; for the bolt did still subdue his vigour. 

Meanwhile the Argives, when they saw that Hector was departed, 440 
Leapt braver on the Troians and hero-glee remember'd. 



book xiv.] THE ILIAD. 251 

Then Ajax swift, Oileus' son, in-springing far the foremost, 

With pointed spear at Satnius the son of Enops, pierc'd him ; 
Whom erst to Enops tending kine a blameless Naid damsel 445 

Bare on the banks of Satnious. Him then Oileus' offspring 
Spearfamous, close approaching, fell'd, stabbing his side: and round him 
Both Tro'ians and Danai commingled hardy struggle. 

But unto him Polydamas, spear-brandishing avenger, 

The son of Panthous, advanc'd; and wounded Prothoenor, 450 

Son of Areilycus : — the spear pass'd thro' his better shoulder : — 

So in the dust he fell, the earth with gripe convulsive clutching. 
Then loudly cried Polydamas with marvellous rejoicing : 

" In truth not fruitlessly in turn from sturdy hand, I reckon, 
Hath Panthous' highhearted son his darting weapon guided ; 455 
But it some Argive welcometh deep in his skin, and resting 
Upon such staff, doth better walk down to the house of Pluto." 

When thus he vauntingly exclaim'd, it sorely griev'd the Argives ; 
And chiefly did the soul bestir of skilful-hearted Ajax, 
The son of Telamon ; for lie stood nighest by the fallen, 460 

And, at the foe retreating, quick his shining weapon darted. 
Then tho' Polydamas himself the gloomy fate avoided, 

Hurrying sideway, yet its force fell on Antenor's offspring, 
Archelochus, sith as for him the gods had ruin plotted. 464 

Just where the head and neck are join'd, and where the spine is ended, 
There enter'd it, and keenly shear'd thro' both the adverse tendons. 
So down the hero dropt ; but ere his knees and shanks had fail'd him, 
On to the earth much sooner shot his head and mouth and nostrils. 
Then to discreet Polydamas in turn exulted Ajax : 

" Poise well the scales, Polydamas, and speak thy answer truly. 470 
Have ye not paid a costly life as price for Prothoenor ? 

To me not worthless seemeth he, nor born of worthless parents. 
Mayhap as brother or as son Antenor courser-taming 

Beknoweth him ; for sooth his form to him near likeness beareth." 474 
He spake, but knew him well : and grief possess'd the Troian bosom. 
Then with his long spear Acamas, around his brother striding, 
Thrust thro' Boeotian Promachus, who by the feet would drag him. 
Thereat loud shouted Acamas with marvellous rejoicing : 



252 THE ILIAD. [book xiv. 

" Argives, frenzied of uproar, insatiate of menace, 
Not verily to us alone is turmoil and affliction 480 

Allotted ; but at times, — as here, — must also ye be slaughter'd. 
Ponder ye well, how Promachus in tranquil sleep reposeth, 
Tam'd by my spear ; nor long, I ween, the forfeit for my brother 
Unpaid abideth : therefore eke exulteth every hero 
To leave a kinsman in his halls, avenger of his troubles." 485 

When thus he vauntingly exclaim'd, it sorely griev'd the Argives, 
And chiefly to Peneleos bestirr'd the prudent bosom, 

Who fierce advanc'd on Acamas : nor waited he the sally 
Of prince Peneleos, whereby Ilioneus was wounded, 

Offspring of Phorbas rich in flocks, who of the Troian people 490 

Was chiefly lov'd by Hermeas, and with possessions favour'd. 
To him Ilioneus was born, his mother's only offspring. 

But now, beneath his eyebrow thrust, the spear drove out the pupil 
And issued thro' his head behind. But he, with arms expanded, 495 
Sank sitting to the ground ; until the foe, his sharp sword drawing, 
Smote him in middle of the neck, and dash'd both head and helmet 
Off to the ground, albeit still the heavy spear was planted 

Thro' the eye's socket. He the head, like to a poppy, lifting, 
Unto the Troians made address and spake a word of boasting. 500 

" Troians ! send word for me, and bid the sire and tender mother 
Of lordly-soul'd Ilioneus to wail within their chambers. 

Ay, for the spouse of Promachus and father Alegenor 
Never again may joy to see their warriour's arrival, 

When we, Achaian youths, return from Troas with our galleys." 505 

He spake ; and all the Troians by terror pale were master'd, 
And each did singly look around to scape headlong destruction. 

Utter for me, ye Muses, now, who dwell in high Olympus, 
Who first among Achaian men then earn'd him gory trophies, 
When the Landshaker glorious the tide of battle turned. 510 

First Ajax, son of Telamon, smote Hyrtius, the leader 
Of hardy-hearted Mysians ; — Gyrtius was his father. 

Antilochus did Mermerus and Phalkes hend for plunder ; 

By Merion, Hippotion and Morys eke was slaughter'd, 

But Periphetes low was laid, and Prothoon, by Teucer. 515 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 253 

Next Menelaiis, hand to hand, deep wounded Hyperenor, 

The people's shepherd, in the flank; and drain'd with wasting weapon 

His vitals ; but the hero's soul into the vast air hurried 

Through the wide-yawning gash : so there did darkness veil his eyen. 

But most of all, Oileus' son, swift Ajax, overhended; 520 

For of Achaians none to him was peer, on foot to follow 

When Jove did counsel flight to men, and hearts were smit with panic. 



BOOK XV. 

.Out when across the palisade and up the moat they clamber'd 
Fleeing, and many fell in death beneath the hands of Argives, 
Then checking at the chariots their wild career, they halted, 

With terror pale and all-amaze. But on the tops of Ida 
Jove woke from slumber, at the side of golden-throned Juno. 5 

So stood he, starting up, and view'd Achaians and Troians, 
The latter routed in the fray; the Argives, close behind them, 

Hotly pursuing, and their ranks by princely Neptune headed : 
But Hector lying on the plain he saw, and, round him sitting, 
His comrades : fainting he at heart, dropt blood from mouth and nostrils, 
And painfully did gasp ; sith not the puniest of Argos 11 

Had smote him. Him with pity view'd the sire of gods and mortals, 
And with a direful scowling glance address'd a word to Juno : 

" Thy mischief-plotting artifice, unmanageable Juno ! 
Hath godlike Hector stopt from war, and terrified his people. 15 

Nor know I, whether haply now of this illwoven noyance 
Thyself shalt first the folly taste, beneath my grievous scourging. 
Or dost forget, how once aloft thou hungest, when I fasten'd 
A pair of anvils from thy feet, and round thy hands a fetter, 
Golden, which nought might break; so thou in clouds and sether hungest. 



254 THE ILIAD. [book xv. 

Then indignation seiz'd the gods who dwell on long Olympus ; 
Yet of their concourse was there none to loose thee ; but whomever 
I caught, them clutching one by one I toss'd from off the threshold, 
Till swooning he the earth might reach. Nor yet did this appease me, 
Smarting with anguish for the fate of Heracles the godlike, 25 

Whom, with the wind of Boreas, didst thou, the Squalls persuading. 
Over the Ocean's cropless plain escort by ill devices. 
So thou to thickly peopled Cos diddest the hero carry ; 
But thence my power rescued him, and after many a labour 
Eestor'd him to his proper home in courser-feeding Argos. 30 

Now, — that from trickeries thou cease, — of this will I remind thee. 
Hereby thou mayest trial make, whether the bed of fondness, 
For which thou earnest from the gods deceitfully, shall aid thee." 

Thus when he spake, with terror quail'd the large-ey'd queenly Juno ; 
So meekly she accosting him did winged accents utter : 35 

" I call to witness now this earth and highth of vasty Heaven 
And dripping water of the Styx, which to the heav'nly blessed 
Greatest and direst is of oaths : yea, by thy head so sacred, 
And our own early bed, — by which swear vainly would I never : 40 
Not surely for the sake of me doth the landshaker Neptune 

Plague Hector and the Troians, or aid to Argos giveth. 
I ween, his proper notion doth imagine and enjoin it; 
Sith at the galleys he beheld and pitied their disasters. 

But (let me say it) eke to him would I my counsel tender, 45 

Into that path to go, wherein, Dark-clouded One ! thou guidest." 

The sire of mortals and of gods with smiles her terror greeted, 
And in responsive argument did winged accents utter. 

" If thou then verily henceforth, large-ey'd queenly Juno, 
Sittest likeminded unto me among the gods immortal, 50 

Then shall prince Neptune (tho' perchance full other be his purpose) 
Sudden reverse his bent of soul, thy heart and mine to follow. 
But if sincerely from thy breast in very truth thou speakest. 
Hie thee among the tribes of gods forthwith, and hither summon 
Iris, my errand to perform, and famous-bow'd Apollo ; 55 

That she amid the wide array of brazen-clad Achaians 

May speed her, and the earnest word to princely Neptune carry, — 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 255 

From battle to withdraw liini straight and seek his proper dwellings : 

But bright Apollo, he meanwhile shall Hector urge to battle, 

And breathe in him new might, and give forgetfulness of anguish, 60 

Which now, deepseated, galleth sore his vitals ; — but the Achaians 

Back from the battle shall he turn, unmanly flight inspiring, 

Till to the many-benched ships of Peleus' son Achilles 

In flight they hurry. He in turn shall rouse his own companion 

Patroclus, — soon to fall in death by spear of gallant Hector 65 

Before the walls of Ilium, when many a youth in Orcus 

Calls him to vengeance ; with the rest, my godlike son Sarpedon. 

But great Achilles, for his friend enrag'd, shall Hector slaughter. 

Thenceforward from the galleys I continuous will give thee 

A never-ceasing back-pursuit of war, until the Achaians 70 

Shall capture lofty Ilium by counsels of Athene. 

But earlier withdraw I not my anger, nor permit I 

Other immortals on the field the Danai to succour ; 

Ere-that I fully complish'd have the longings of Pelides, 

As first I undertook for him and with my nod assented, 75 

Upon the day, when by my knees the goddess Thetis clasp'd me, 

Imploring honour for her son Achilles city-rieving." 

He spake, nor uncompliant found the white-arm'd goddess Juno, 
But, from the mounts of Ida, up went she to long Olympus. 
As darteth forth the mind of man, who over ample country 80 

Distant hath journey'd ; haply he in sage remembrance thinketh, 
" In such a place was I, and such," — and roveth wide at random ; 
So then, in eagerness, across flew venerable Juno. 

At steep Olympus she arriv'd, and found the gods immortal 
All gather'd in the hall of Jove. They, seeing her arrival, 85 

Upstarted from their seats at once, and welcom'd her with goblets. 
She of the rest took no account, yet did accept the goblet 
From Themis dainty-cheek'd ; who first came hurrying to meet her, 
And with address of courtesy such winged accents utter'd : 

" Juno, why hither wendest thou,and, like to frighten'd, seemest ? 90 
Troth ! Saturn's son hath scared thee, who is thy proper consort." 

To her then spake reciprocal the white-arm'd goddess Juno : 
66. Orcus, the underworld. This word is Latin, not Homeric : so Tartarus. 



256 THE ILIAD. [book xv. 

"Themis ! dear goddess ! ask not me too much : thyself well knowest 
His heart of royal haughtiness, how stern and overfoaming. 
Do thou, in chambers of the gods, preside at rightful banquet, 95 
But of these doings afterward wilt hear, with all the immortals, 
What ill achievements Jupiter doth show us ; nor, I reckon, 
Will he to all alike give joy, — on earth, nor yet in heaven, 

Albeit at the heavenly board each one now cheery feasteth." 

Such words did queenly Juno speak, and took her seat among them. 
Then in the hall of Jove the gods indignant were : but Juno 101 
Forcing upon her lips a smile, no gladness on her forehead 
Display'd along her raven brow; but angrily address'd them : 

" Simple are we, infatuate, -who with intentness ponder 

Whether we will some limit set on Jove, by close encounter 105 
Of word, or haply of constraint : but he, apart abiding, 
At our misliking fretteth not nor heedeth ; for he vaunteth, 

That he, egregious of gods, in strength and might is foremost. 

W r herefore, whatever ill to each he list to offer, take ye. 
And now already, I opine, for Ares woe is complish'd ; 110 

For in the battle fallen is his son, of heroes dearest, 

Ascalaphus, whom to himself ^Ares as offspring claimeth." 

She spake; but Ares instantly with double palm descending 
Smote on his lusty thighs, and pour'd an utterance of wailing. 

" Blame not my purpose, ye gods, who hold Olympian dwellings, 
My slaughter' d offspring to avenge beside the Achaian galleys ; 
Albeit eke for me be doom to lie among the corpses 

Struck by the thunderbolt of Jove, in blood and dust confounded." 

So spake he, and accordant bade Terror and Plight to harness 
His coursers, and himself would don his allresplendent armour. 120 
Then other turmoil had been wrought more mighty and more noisome 
By the fierce wrath of Jupiter against the gods immortal ; 
But that Athene, smit with fear for all the heav'nly dwellers, 
Out o'er the threshold rush'd, and left the throne whereon she rested, 
And off his head the helmet drew and buckler from his shoulders ; 125 
Then taking from his sturdy hand the brazen spear, she fix'd it 
Upright, and with reproachful words did lash impetuous Ares : 

" doltish and bewilder'd soul, besotted are thy senses : 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 257 

Troth ! vainly hast thou ears to hear ; thy shame and wits are perish'd 

Or heardest not, what argument spake white-arm'd goddess Juno, 

Who now afresh, from Jupiter the Olympian, arriveth? 131 

Dost wish, thyself with many a woe bestraught, by stern compulsion, 

Despite thy anger, back to haste retiring to Olympus, 

And to the other blessed ones great mischief to engender ? 

Tor shortly Jupiter will leave the haughty-hearted Troians 135 

And Argives ; but on us will come with riot to Olympus, 

And indiscriminate will catch the guilty and the harmless. 

Thou therefore for thy bonny son remit, I say, thy anger. 

For one than him far mightier in force and skill already 

Slain either is, or shall be soon : and troth, the task were toilsome 140 

Of all the world the kith and kin to rescue from disaster." 

Thus speaking, she upon his throne impetuous Ares seated : 
Out of the chambers thereupon did Juno call Apollo 
And Iris, who is messenger unto the gods immortal ; 

Then straitly she exhorting them harangu'd in winged accents : 145 

" Jove biddeth both of you to come with utmost speed to Ida ; 
But when arriv'd ye be, and raise on Jupiter your eyen, 
Then complish, whatsoe'er of tasks his pleasure may enjoin you." 
I Such errand spoken, back again hied venerable Juno 
And sat upon her throne ; but they, the twain, flew darting forward. 150 
Soon unto Ida rill-bestream'd, parent of game, arriv'd they, 
And found widesighted Saturn's child upon the summit resting 
At Gargarus, and round his form was wreath'd a cloud of incense. 
So entering, before the face of Jove the cloud- collector 

Stood they; nor when the twain he saw, was he in heart displeased, 155 
That to the bidding of his spouse they quickly gave obeisance. 
Then he to Iris earlier his winged accents utter'd : 

"Hie, hurry, speedy Iris! hence; bear thou to princely Neptune 
The rightful errand of my words, nor be a false reporter. 
Command him to withdraw himself from contest and from battle, 160 
Returning mid the tribes of gods or the salt flood eternal. 
But if he choose not to obey my word, but disregardeth, 

Let him thereafter ponder well within his heart and bosom, 
Lest, stalwart tho' his hardiment, in onset he be -feeble 

17 



25! 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XV. 



Me to withstand : for I than him in force am greatly stronger, 165 
And earlier of birth ; and yet his fancy fondly slighteth 

To hold pretension as my peer, at whom all others shudder." 

He spake, nor uncompliant found fleet stormy-footed Iris, 
But down to sacred Ilium from Ida's mountains hied she. 

And as when hailstorm from the clouds may fly, or sleety shower, 170 
Chill'd by the gust of Boreas, whom sky serene doth gender; 

So swiftly in her eagerness across flew speedy Iris, 

Andstandingcloseinfront,address'dthe glorious Landshaker : 

"OEarth-encirclerpurple-hair'dlto thee I hither hurry 
Erom aegis-holding Jupiter a canny errand bearing. 175 

He biddeth to withdraw thyself from contest and from battle, 
Returning mid the tribes of gods or the salt flood eternal. 
But if thou choose not to obey his word, but disregardest, 
Then doth he threaten thee in turn, with adverse force to hie him 
Eor battle hitherward : but thee he urgeth, from encounter 180 

With him to shrink ; sith he than thee in force is greatly stronger, 
And earlier in birth ; and yet thy fancy fondly slighteth 

To hold pretension as his peer, at whom all others shudder." 

To her indignantly replied the glorious Landshaker : 

"Ye Spirits! troth, tho' grand he be, haughty the word he speaketh, 185 
If me, who am in rank his peer, he will constrain unwilling. 
Eor we, three equal brethren are, whom Rhea bare to Saturn, 
First Jove, next me, then Aides, who nether regions swayeth. • 
All things in threefold lot are cast : each hath his share of honour. 
To me the hoary brine for aye as dwelling was apportion'd, 190 
When lots we shook ; to Aides the sunless dusk was granted ; 
Jove had as his the ample sky of clouds and empty sether : 
But Earth to all is common yet, as eke is long Olympus, 



demean me : let him tranquil 
albeit stalwart is he. 
alarm me, as a coward. 



So will not I by Jove's decree 
Abide within his own third share. 
But truly let him not by force 
More seemly were it and more right against his sons and daughters. 
Whom he himself begat, to scold with keen and lordly errand. 
These, when he sendeth urgent word, must e'en perforce obey him." 
To him responded thereupon fleet stormy-footed Iris : 



195 



200 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 259 

" Earth-encircler purple-hair'd ! alas ! is this my errand ? 
This must I bear to Jupiter from thee, — so stern and hardy ? 

Or wilt thou somewhat bend and yield ? and noble hearts are yielding. 
Thou knowest, how on elders-born for ever wait the Furies." 

Then Neptune, shaker of the earth, accosted her responsive : 205 
" Iris, dear goddess ! troth ! this word discreetly hast thou spoken. 
Good folio weth the messenger, who canny counsel knoweth. 
Only my heart and soul are here by anguish grimly wounded, 
When Jupiter usurpeth right with words of gall to wrangle 

Against his peer in destiny, to equal lot appointed. 210 

But now, indignant though I am, to this will I submit me. 
Yet one thing will I farther say and from my heart will threaten. 
If he, against my will, — against Athene booty- driving, — 
Despite of princely Yulcan, — ay ! of Hermeas, and Juno, — 
Shall rescue lofty Ilium, nor suffer us to storm it 215 

And to the Argive arms to give the mastery of glory ; 
Know he: a feud betwixt us twain unheal'd abideth ever." 

So speaking, the Land shaker left the army of Achaia, 
And plung'd beneath the deep: and soon the Achaian heroes miss'd him. 
But cloud-collecting Jupiter thereat address'd Apollo : 220 

"Go now, dear shining one! andseekthe brazen-helmed Hector. 
The god who circleth quaking Earth already is departed 
Into his salt eternal flood, eschewing our displeasure 

Gramsome ; for other gods also did hear of yore our battle, 
Who, nethermost of nature, dwell around the home of Saturn. 225 
But verily, alike to me and to himself, more gainful 

Was it, that he did earlier indignantly submit him 

Beneath my puissance: else, the toil no common struggle boded. 
But now within thy hands assume my many-fringed aegis, 
And in their faces flaunting it, dismay the Achaian heroes. 230 
But thou, Eardarter ! must thyself have care of gallant Hector, 
And in him waken mighty force so long, until the Achaians 
Unto their galleys reach in flight and to the flood of Helle. 
But I thenceforward will myself of word and work bethink me, 
How-that the Achaians may again find respite from disaster." 235 

So spake he ; nor Apollo then did disobey his father, 



260 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XV. 



And down from Ida's tops he went, in semblance of a falcon 
Fleet-winged, pigeon-murdering, of feather'd wights the swiftest. 
So found he godlike Hector, son of skilful-hearted Priam, 
Sitting, nor prostrate still ; for he anew had sense recover'd, 240 

Knowing his comrades round about. Gasping and sweat had ceased, 
Sithence the mind of Jupiter, the segis -holder, rais'd him. 

Then, near beside him standing, spake Apollo Far-averter : 

" Hector, son of Priamus ! why thus apart from others 
Sittest thou faint at heart ? perchance doth some disaster plague thee ?" 

To him, with puny vigour left spake motley-helmed Hector : 246 
"Who art thou, noblest of the gods! that face to face dost ask me? 
Hearest thou not, — in outmost fight against the Achaian galleys, 
How Ajax, good at need, did smite with huge stone on my bosom, 
While I his comrades slew; and quell'd my furious encounter. 250 
And verily I thought to see the dead, and house of Pluto, 

Upon this day : so near did I gasp forth my tender spirit." 

To him the Far-averting prince Apollo spake responsive : 
" Now cheer thee ! such reserve of war Saturnius from Ida 
Hath forward to befriend thee sent and rescue thee from danger, — 255 
Me, golden-belted shining prince Apollo, who do ever 
Of yore deliver both thyself and eke thy lofty fortress. 

But to thy many charioteers, come now, give earnest bidding 

Unto the smoothly hollow ships to drive the nimble horses : 
And I myself, in front of them advancing, for the horses 260 

Will level all the chariot-roads and scare the Achaian heroes." 

So saying, mighty strength he breath'd into the people's shepherd. 
As when a charger, closely kept, high-pamper'd at the manger, 
Bursting his halter, o'er the plain with prance and gambol trampleth, 
Accustom'd in the flood to bathe of some fair-streaming river, 265 
Wild glorying ; and holdeth high his head, and off his shoulders 
Kusheth the mane abroad ; and he in his brave beauty trusteth ; 
Lightly his knees then carry him to horses' haunts and pastures : 



So too with supple foot and knee 
Soon as he heard the voice divine, 
And as when dogs or rustic men 
Whether an antler-bearing stag 



did Hector hurry onward, 
his charioteers to order. 270 

have chas'd upon the mountains 
or roebuck : — it, defended 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 261 

By forest-boughs o'ershadowing and rocks that cheat the footstep, 
Escapeth them, nor is success to all their efforts destin'd ; 

At length, beneath their shouting rous'd, upon the path appeareth 275 
A noble-bearded lion, who doth sudden scare their courage : 

So for awhile the Danai in troops did keenly follow, 

With swords and with twohanded pikes against the foeman stabbing ; 
But when they Hector saw amid the ranks of heroes moving, 
They trembled, and the soul of all beside their feet lay prostrate. 280 

Thoas hereat, Andraemon's son, did with harangue accost them : 
Of all iEtolia bravest he, to dart the jav'lin skilful, 

And good in standing fight : but few might in debate surpass him, 
When in full mote Achaian youths * held rivalry of prudence ; 
Who then with kindly soul harangu'd and spake his word among them : 
"Ye spirits ! now these eyen see in truth a mighty marvel, 286 

If Hector they behold again arisen, Fate escaping. 

Yet verily each heart of us was trusting that this hero 

Lately had perish'd by the hands of Telamonian Ajax. 
But now some heav'nly god anew hathsav'd and rescued Hector, 290 
Who had of many Danai unstrung the knees and sinews. 

So now, as I forebode, again will be : for here he standeth 

An ardent leader, not without the will of Jove high-rumbling. 
But come, as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow : 
Back to the galleys bid we all the multitude to hie them ; 295 

But for ourselves, who boast to be amid the army bravest, 
Confronting him with spears outstretch'd, let us withstand his onset, 
If we may haply stagger him : and he, I ween, tho' eager, 
Will shrink to meet the Danai and in their troop to mingle." 

He spake ; and they all willingly did listen and obey him. 300 

Crowding around the Ajaces twain and Merion and Teucer, 
Around the prince Idomeneus and Meges peer to Ares, 
The stubborn struggle marshall'd they, their champions collecting 
Fierce to withstand the Troians and Hector ; but behind them 
Back to the Achaian galleys hied the multitude returning. 305 

Forward in plump the Troians rush'd, and at their head was Hector, 

284. Elder chiefs and princes spoke in the council; the younger men only in 
the public assembly ', and then but rarely, it seems. 



262 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XV. 



With lengthy strides ; and in his front hied bright Apollo onward, 
Clad round his shoulders with a cloud ; the furious aegis bearing, 
Dreadful, with shag of fringes rough, preeminent ; which Yulcan, 
Worker of copper, gave to Jove for men's dismay to carry : 310 
This aegis holding in his hands, Apollo led the peoples ; 
But eke the Argives clos'd their ranks unmov'd ; and deadly clamour 
From either side arose : then leapt the arrows from the bowstring, 
And many a brazen javelin, by sturdy sinews darted, 

Partly were fix'd within the limbs of callants keen in battle, 315 

And others midway numerous, for glut of carnage greedy, 
Ere the fair skin they might attain, harmless in earth were planted. 
While bright Apollo held unmov'd the manyfringed aegis, 
So long from either side the darts did fly, and people perish ; 
But when he flouted full in face the charioteering Argives, 320 

Shaking his arm, and eke himself yell'd loudly ; then their bosom 
Was all bewitch'd with fear, and straight forgat impetuous ardour. 
And as, amid a herd of kine or mighty flock of bleaters, 

In gloominess of dusky night do two wild beasts make havoc, 

Which suddenly arrive, nor find the keeper at his station : 325 

So were the Achaians terrified, unwarlike ; for Apollo 
Eill'd them with fear, and glory gave to Hector and the Troians. 
Thereon each hero slew his man, when scatter'd was the struggle. 

first, and Arkesilaiis : 
Boeotians was leader, 330 

to Mnestheus mighty-hearted, 
hent Iasus and Medon. 
— their sire, divine Oileus ; — 
and dwelt afar, as exile, 
whilom had slain a hero, 335 

his stepdame Eriopis. 
was Iasus a leader, 



By Hector, slain was Stichius 
The latter to the brazen-clad 
The former, trusty comrade was 
iEneias next for death and spoil 
Medon to Ajax brother was ; 
But Medon was of meaner birth, 
Long time in Phylake ; for he 
A kinsman of his father's bride 
But to Athene's skilful folk 
And Sphelus was his father call'd, 
Mekisteus by Polydamas, 
Clonius by divine Agenor, 
Paris hit Deiochus behind 
As in the foremost ranks he fled : 



but Bucolus his grandsire. 

Echius by Polites, 

fell in foremost struggle, 340 

at bottom of the shoulder, 

and thrust the weapon thro' him. 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 263 

Whilefrom theslain the victors stript their arms, meanwhile the Achaians, 
Within the deep-entrenched moat and palisades entangled, 
Eov'd hither, thither ; and anew perforce the rampart enter'd. 345 
Then Hector rais'd his voice aloft and charg'd the Troian array- 
To leave the gory panoplies and rush upon the galleys : 

" But whomsoever I descry far from the galleys slinking, 
There, on the spot, for Mm will I plot ruin ; nor shall ever 
His kinsmen and kinswomen dear in rightful flames enwrap him : 350 
But him before our city's wall the hungry dogs shall mangle." 

Thus speaking, with the scourge he lash'd his horses on the shoulder, 
Cheering across the Troian ranks aloud : and they, beside him, 
With general alarum, held the chariot-trailing horses. 

Unearthly was their battle-din. Before them bright Apollo 355 
With his broad foot did easily cast down into the middle 
The scarp'd embankments of the trench, and bridg'd an ample causey 
Solid and broad ; so far, as when a man, to outmost distance, 
Flingeth in air his javelin, his martial vigour trying. 

Over this road in ample squares they pour'd; in front, Apollo 360 
With costly aegis on his arm. Eight easily o'erthrew he 

The Achaian rampart, e'en as when a child lays low his sandheap ; 
Who, where the billow lately dash'd, a playful wall hath built him 
Of sand, and when his sport is done, with foot or hand o'erthrows it : 
So then by thee, bright Eius,* the plenteous toil and trouble 365 
Of Argives vain was made, and eke themselves with terror filled. 
But, checking by the galleys' side their wild career, they halted, 
And each to other made appeal, and to all gods in heaven 
Did every one with lifted hands loud supplication offer. 
But chiefly there Gerenian Nestor, watcher of the Achaians, 370 

Made prayer to the gods, his hand to starry heaven lifting : 

" O father Jove, if ever yet a man in wheatful Argos, 

Burning to thee the costly limbs of sheep or eke of bullock, 
Besought thee for a safe return, and thou didst nod approval ; 
Think of all this, Olympian ! and ward the ruthless moment, 375 

Nor wholly by the Troians destroy the Achaian army." 

365. Mus is clearly a surname of Apollo : its meaning is less certain. 
Sophocles makes it le'ius. 



264 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XV. 



So prayed Neleus' aged son ; 
Did Jove the Counsellor reply, 
The Troians also, at the voice 
Leapt braver on the Achaians 
As on the ample-breasted sea 
Over the galley's wooden ribs 
Of wind impress it ; for 'tis this, 
So then with terrible uproar 



thereat with mighty thunder 

his supplication hearing. 

of Jove the segisholder, 

and hero-glee remember'd. 380 

when a huge billow plungeth, 

descending, if the hurtle 

that chief the waves engrosseth : 

the Troians scal'd the rampart. 



And now, their coursers driving in, at poop of galley fought they, 385 
Mingled in battle, foe to foe, with doublehanded weapons, 

These mounted on the chariots ; but those from dusky galleys 
With lengthy shipspears warded them, which on the decks were stored, 
Easten'd with clamps for naval fight, and tipt at end with copper. 

But, for Patroclus, he meantime, while Troians and Achaians 390 
Outside, beyond the Argive fleet, around the wall were fighting ; 
With friendly-soul'd Eurypylus he in the tent was seated 
So long, and sooth'd his heart with talk ; and as a balm of anguish, 
Drugs o'er the painful wound he spread, of medicinal virtue. 
But, when he after was aware, the Troians o'er the rampart 395 
Had enter'd, while the Dana'i were fill'd with scream and tumult ; 

Then loudly groan'd he, and straightway with double palm descending 
Smote on his thighs, and pour'd abroad an utterance of wailing : 

" Eurypylus ! albeit much thou needest me, no longer 

May I beside thee stay ; for lo ! a mighty strife is risen. 400 

But thee, let now thy squire amuse ; and I unto Achilles 
Must quickly hie me, if perchance I win him to the combat. 
Who knoweth, if, with heaven's aid, I haply by persuasion 
May stir his spirit ? useful is a comrade's exhortation." 

He, with such words, on speedy feet departed; but the Achaians 405 
Eirmly the Troian advance awaited, nor were able, 

Albeit fewer were the foes, to ward them from the galleys. 

Nor might the Troians yet break thro' the Danaan battalions 
And force a passage to the tents and mingle with the galleys. 
As by a cunning workman's hands, in wisdom of Athene 410 

Taught perfectly, the rule doth draw a galley's timber even ; 
So even, of those combatants was drawn the fight and combat. 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 265 

And battle, diverse ships around, by diverse men was waged, 

But Hector made his chief attack against illustrious Ajax. 415 

Around one galley had the twain fierce trouble, nor were able, 

The Troian, out to drive his foe and wrap in flames the galley, 

Kor he, the assailant to repel, sith heav'nly power brought him. 

fhen gallant Ajax with his spear struck on the breast Caletor, 

The active son of Clytius, fire to the galley bearing ; 420 

So with a loud crash down he fell, and dropt the brand beside him. 

But Hector, when before his eyes his cousin he discerned 

Laid prostrate in the dust, in front, beneath the dusky galley, 

He shouted to the Troians and Lycians and Dardans : 

" Dardans, who hand to hand contend, and Lycians and Troians ! 425 
Not yet, in such a strait, my friends ! retire ye from the battle ; 
But save the son of Clytius, nor let the Achaians strip him, 

Fallen before the galley-poop, in theatre of battle." 

So spake he, and with shining spear straightway at Ajax darted, 
And miss'd him: but the weapon hitLycophron, son of Mastor, 430 
Who, at divine Kythera born, of yore had slain a hero : 

Then quitted he his early home, and dwelt, as squire, with Ajax. 
To this man, as by Ajax's side he stood, the spear of Hector 
Enter'd his head above the ear ; so backward from the galley 
Into the dust from off the poop he fell, unstrung and helpless. 435 
But Ajax shudder'd at the sight, and straight address'd his brother : 

"Dear Teucer ! lo ! before our eyes is slain our trusty comrade, 
The son of Mastor, whom we both did in our chambers welcome 
With honour like to parents dear, arriving from Kythera. 
But mighty -hearted Hector him hath slain. Where now thy arrows 
Death swiftly dealing, and the bow which bright Apollo gave thee?" 

He spake, and Teucer caught the word, and ran, and stood beside him, 
Holding within his hand the bow back-bending, and the quiver 
Fraught full with arrows : quick he shot his bolts against the Troians. 
By the first arrow Cleitus fell, Peisenor's brilliant offspring, 445 
The comrade of Polydamas the lordly son of Panthus, 

Holding within his hands the reins. He with the steeds was busied : 
For there kept he ; — for kindly aid to Hector and the Troians, — 
422. Cousin. In 20, 238, Clytius is brother to Priam. 



266 THE ILIAD. [book xv. 

Where thickest justled were the ranks : but quickly came the mischief 
On to himself; which none of all, tho' eager, then averted. 450 

For deep within his neck, behind, the grievous arrow pierced : 
So from the chariot he dropt ; and sudden swerv'd the horses, 

Rattling the empty chariot. But quickly did its master 

Polydamas perceive, who first in front the steeds arrested. 

Them gave he to Astynoiis, the son of Protiaon, 455 

And on him many a charge he laid, at hand to keep the horses, 
Eying his master; — straight, himself regain'd the foremost battle. 
Then Teucer took a second shaft for brazen-helmed Hector ; 
And would an end of war have made against the Achaian galleys, 
Had he the chieftain slain, in whom was primacy of valour. 460 

Nor this the canny mind escap'd of Jupiter, who guarded 
Hector, and glory's vaunt denied to Telamonian Teucer. 
For while as in the blameless bow he drew the string well-twisted, 
Jove sudden snapt it : thereupon the brazen-weighted arrow 
Stray'd other way, and from his hand down fell his vain equipment. 465 
Then Teucer shudder'd at the sight and straight address'd his brother : 

" Ye Spirits! troth! some power high our plans of battle snappeth 
All rudely, who from out my hands hath cast the bow and arrow, 
And burst the newly-twisted string, which I this morning fasten'd, 
That stoutly it might carry home the thickly-springing arrows." 470 

Then spake to him reciprocal great Telamonian Ajax : 
"Dear fellow, leave thy bow in peace and all thy sheaves of arrows ; 
Sith, envying the Danai, some god hath these confounded. 

But in thy hands take lengthy spear and buckler on thy shoulder, 
And fight against the Troians and rouse the other peoples. 475 

Then, tho' the mastery they win, not without effort shall they 
The well-deck'd galleys take, if we do battle-glee remember." 

So spake he : Teucer then replac'd within his tent the arrows, 
But round his shoulders quickly slung his shield with plates quadruple, 
And on his gallant head he put a well-wrought leathern helmet, 480 
Bushy with horsetail : dreadfully the crest above it nodded. 
Lastly, he grasp'd a valiant spear, pointed with brass well temper'd, 
Hied on his path, and speedily ran up, and stood by Ajax. 

But Hector, when his eye descried the bolts of Teucer crippled, 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 267 

Loud shouted to the Troians and Lycians and Dardans : 485 

" Dardans, who hand to hand contend, and Lycians and Troians ! 
Be men, niy friends ! nor negligent of furious encounter 
Beside the smoothly hollow ships. For lo ! these eyes are witness, 
How of a leading warriour the bolts by Jove are crippled. 

Eight easily may man discern the purposes of heaven, 490 

Alike, to whomso Jupiter high mastery vouchsafeth, 

And eke whomso he lessen will, nor chooseth to avenge them ; 
As now the Argives willeth he to crush, but us to succour. 
But fight ye at the galleys, all in plump : and if for any 
The doom of death allotted be, by thrust or flying arrow, 495 

Let death be welcome : seemly 'tis in combat for one's country 
To die, if need be ; but his wife and children safe behind him 
And house and lot inviolate abide, w T hene'er the Achaians 

Back to their native land belov'd depart upon their galleys." 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 500 
But Ajax, he on other side did charge his own companions : 

"0 shame, ye Argives ! now behold your guarantee, — to perish 
Or save our fortunes, beating back this noyance from the galleys. 
If motley-helmed Hector burn the Achaian ships, then hope ye 
Each man his native land to reach on his own feet returning? 505 
Hear ye not Hector eagerly urge them, our fleet to kindle ? 

Not to a dance he summoneth, I reckon, but to combat. 
Eor us no counsel and intent, better than this, abideth, 

Eoot against foot and hand to hand to grapple, soul and body. 510 
Better it is, now once for all to live or else to perish, 

Than pine in combat lingering by grim embrace of foemen,— 
Men who are noway peers to us, — on the shore's edge, thus vainly." 

He, by such word s, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 
Then Hector, he slew Schedius, a son of Perimedes, 515 

And prince of Phocis : Ajax hent Laodamas in slaughter, 
A leader of the infantry, Antenor's brilliant offspring. 

Polydamas for death and spoil took Otus of Kyllene, 
Comrade of Phyleus' son, and prince to the high-soul'd Epeians. 
But Meges saw, and rush'd on him : Polydamas evaded, 520 

Minching aside ; so him the thrust struck not : nor did Apollo 
Allow the son of Panthoiis to fall in front encounter. 



268 THE ILIAD. [book xv. 

But Croismus' bosom, in his stead, to meet the spear was destin'd : 
Crashing he fell, and Meges stript the armour from his shoulders. 
Meanwhile upon him Dolops rush'd, to wield the spear right skilful, 525 
And to impetuous valour train'd ; (Dolops, the son of Lampus, 
Son of Laomedon : his sire, Lampus, was chief of heroes :) 

This man, approaching, with the spear assail'd the son of Phyleus, 
And pierc'd his midmost buckler thro'; but the close corslet sav'd him, 
Which, at the hollows jointed well, he wore : (his father Phyleus 530 
Brought it of yore from Ephyra, from the Sellei's river. 
His host Euphetes, prince of men, on him as gift bestow'd it, 
To wear for battle's garniture, a shelter from the foeman ; 
Which from the body of his son did then avert destruction.) 
But Meges on his helmet's top, brazen, with horsetail shaggy, 535 
Thrust heavy with his spear, and broke the plumed crest, which sudden 
Fell all dishonour'd in the dust, of late with crimson shining. 
While Dolops yet the fight maintain'd, and still for conquest hoped, 
Meanwhile as succour to the foe came martial Menelaiis. 540 

He on the flank approach'd unseen, and flung behind the shoulder 
His spear: its onward-hasting point, possest by fury, issued 
Eight thro' the hapless Troian's breast, who sideways there fell headlong. 
Then rush'd the heroes twain to strip the armour from his shoulders. 
But to the kinsmen of the slain Hector address'd him sternly, 545 
And chief to Melanippus brave, the son of Hiketaon : 
Who, while the foemen were afar, did pasture in Percotas 
His crumple-horned kine ; but when their easy-steering galleys 
Arriv'd, came back to Ilium, and was among the Troians 550 

Signal and dwelt in Priam's court, honour'd as Priam's children. 
On him did Hector cast reproach, and spake, his name pronouncing : 

" Melanippus, shall we thus neglect ? and is thy bosom 
Not fill'd with self-reproaching shame, to see thy kinsman fallen ? 
Or doth it scape thee, how the foe round Dolops' arms is busied ? 555 
But follow ! for no longer choice have we, aloof to combat 
Against the Argives : choice is none, but them to slay, or suffer 
The fall of lofty Ilium and bondage of her people." 

He spake, and led the way : behind, the godlike hero follow'd. 
But Ajax, son of Telamon, meanwhile bestirr'd the Argives : . 

551. Hiketaon and Lampus were brothers of Priam, 20, 238. 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 269 

"Oh. friends, be men, and in your souls a bashful honour cherish, 561 
And each to other bashful be amid your hardy struggles. 

Of bashful-hearted men, the most are safe, and few are slaughter'd : 
But runaways no glory win, nor runneth safety with them." 

So spake he ; and his comrades eke themselves for fight were earnest. 
They in their inmost bosom cast his word, and fenc'd the galleys 
With barrier of brass ; but still did Jove arouse the Troians. 
Then Menelaiis, good at need, Antilochus would challenge : 

" Of Argive chieftains none than thee, Antilochus, is younger, 
Nor swifter is of foot ; nor e'en, as thou, is bold in battle, 570 

If from the ranks thou wouldest leap, and hit some foremost Troian." 

He with such words departed, sith he had the youth excited ; 
Who, leaping from the foremost ranks, with shining weapon darted, 
Turning on every side his gaze : the Troians shrunk before him, 
As from him flew the javelin : nor did he aim it vainly, 575 

But struck in middle of the breast the son of Hiketaon, 
Seeking for danger's foremost post, high-hearted Melanippus : 
So with a loud crash down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 
Then forward sped Antilochus, as hound on fawn that 's wounded, 
Which, as it springeth from its lair, with deadly aim a hunter 580 

Hitting, its sinews hath unstrung ; so then, Melanippus, 
On thee the war-abiding youth sprang, to despoil thy armour. 
But godlike Hector saw, and ran to thwart him in encounter. 
Then, tho' an ardent warriour, Antilochus retreated, 585 

Skulking away,like some wild beast, that conscious is of mischief, 
Which, having haply kill'd a dog or herdsman round the cattle, 
Hurries escaping, ere the crowd of peasants be assembled : 
So hurried Nestor's son. At him the Troians and Hector 
With an unearthly clamour pour'd their darts' distressful shower: 590 
But quickly fac'd he round, when first he reach'd his troop of comrades. 
Meanwhile the Troian army, like to raw-devouring lions, 
Against the galleys press'd apace and Jove's command accomplish'd, 
Who alway waken'd in their heart high courage ; and bewitching 
The Danai, of glory them despoil' d, but those excited, 595 

Holding the purpose, to extend to Hector son of Priam 
The meed of glory, till he cast upon the crested galleys 
The restless fire's unearthly blaze and wholly win for Thetis 



270 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XV. 



600 



605 



Her pray'rill-omen'd: this was Jove the Counsellor awaiting, 
The blaze before his eyes to see rise from a burning galley. 
Thenceforward destin'd he to give a back-pursuit unceasing, 
Driving the Troians from the ships with glory to the Argives. 
Such purpose holding, he against the smoothly hollow galleys 
Eous'd Hector, son of Priamus, himself already eager ; 
Who rag'd, as eke may Ares' self, spear-poiser ; or as rageth 
Upon the mountains deadly fire in thickets of a forest. 
Foam circled from his gnashing teeth : beneath his horrid eyebrow 
Gleam'd his two eyen; but the helm shook dreadful on his temples 
Amid the battle : sith to him a champion from heaven 610 

Was Jove himself ; who him alone mid many heroes honour'd 
And glorified awhile ; not long: for, troth! his hour of greatness 
Soon to expire was destin'd : sith already maid Athene, 
Beneath Pelides' might, on him the day of doom was bringing. 
To force a passage, troth ! he wish'd, the ranks of men attempting, 
Where thickest he the crowd beheld and noblest was the armour. 
"Yet, tho' supreme his hankering, not even so he forc'd them, 
As stood they, fitted tower-wise, like to some rock of ocean, 
Foot-cheating, huge, which plungeth sheer amid the hoary surges, 
And firm abideth aye, despite the speedy-gliding courses 

Of whistling gales, and turbid waves which forth are belch'd against it : 
So mid the war the Danai were motionless and tranquil. 

But he amid the scuffle leapt, with blaze around him sheeny, 

Plumping, as on a galley sharp may plump a bouncing billow, 
Whose bulk by cloud-born squalls is fed and all by foam is cover'd. 625 
The direful blast against the sail doth roar ; the trembling sailors 
Shrink with alarm; for close they ride to death beside them yawning. 
So direfully the heart was rent within the Achaian bosom. 
Then as the kine,on whom may come a deadly-hearted lion, 630 

In the great pasture of a marsh, where they in numbers countless 
Graze ; and a herdsman in their midst doth stand, not yet well trained 
With stalwart-hearted beasts to fight for crumple-horned cattle ; 
Thus, as the cows move, moveth he: but pouncing on the middle, 635 
The beast a heifer hath devour'd, and all with panic filleth : 
So with divine alarm, beneath Hector and Jove the Father, 

The Achaians were affrighted all : yet none he overhended, 



615 



620 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 271 

Save only Periphetes, son of Mycenasan Copreus, 

Who to Eurystheus message bare of great Heracles' labours. 640 

Prom such a father worser far, was born an offspring better 

In every virtue, — hand or foot, — to fight, to run, to counsel ; 

For he in knowledge might defy the foremost of Mycenae : 

Who by his fall to Hector gave the meed of higher glory. 

For, backward turning him, he tript against his buckler's margin, 645 

Which, reaching to his heels, he bare, from javelins a shelter. 

By this entangled, down he fell, right on his back : the helmet, 

Bang'd on the hard ground suddenly, rang horrid round his temples. 

But Hector, quick espying it, ran up and stood before him, 

And in his bosom plung'd the spear, and near his dear companions 650 

Slew him : but these unable were, tho' heartstruck for their comrade, 

Rescue to bring him ; for themselves had awe of godlike Hector. 

They in full gaze the galleys held ; the outmost hulls embrac'd them, 

Which foremost on the strand were haul'd : and onward stream'd the Troians . 

Then from the foremost galley-poops perforce withdrew the Argives, 655 

Yet cluster'd densely round their tents, nor in confusion straggled, 

By shame and fear constrain'd, while eachto each spake threat and counsel, 

But chiefly there Gerenian Nestor, watcher of the Achaians, 

Touching the knees of every man, besought him by his parents : 

" O friends, be men, and in your souls a bashful honour cherish, 660 
Fearing the blame of other men ; and every one remember 
His children and his tender wife, his lot of land, and parents, 
Whether alive they still abide, or whether death have ta'en them. 
On sake of these dear absent ones I by your knees beseech you 665 
Firmly to hold against the foe nor yield yourselves to terror." 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited, 
And maid Athene from their eyes the cloud of mist dispersed 
Unearthly : so from either side full light was shed around them, 
Alike, where stood their inmost ships, and o'er the impartial battle : 670 
So knew they Hector good at need, and knew their own companions, 
Who from the galleys stood aloof and fear'd to join the combat, 
And who beside the galleys sharp stood hardily in battle. 

No longer then it pleas'd the soul of mighty-hearted Ajax 
To stand, where congregated stood the children of Achaia; 675 

But he along the galleys' decks with mighty strides invading, 



272 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XV. 



680 



685 



Wielded within his hands a pike, made long for naval combat ; — 

Full two-and-twenty ells its length, with brazen clamps compacted. 

As on the horses' backs is seen a man to riding trained, 

Who, picking from a numerous herd, four steeds together slingeth, 

And, from the country driving them, to a great city rideth 

Along a people-trodden road ; and many men and women 

Stand gazing at him : calmly he and safely, springs alternate 

From back to back, as listeth him; and headlong, on they scurry : 

So Ajax on to many decks of swift-careering galleys 

Long striding, mov'd alternately, and rais'd his voice to heaven ; 

And alway to the Danai with dreadfnl whoop he shouted, 

To save the galleys and the tents. — On other side, nor Hector 

Would, mid the crowd of Troians close-corsleted, await him ; 

But he, in guise no other, than as tawny eagle souseth 690 

On to a flock of winged fowl that feed beside a river, 

Or geeese or cranes or longnecked swans; so, rushing straight,did Hector 

Against the blue-prow'd galley dash: for Jupiter behind him 

By his own mighty hand press'd on, and with him urg'd the people. 695 

Then once again beside the ships arose a bitter combat. 
Thou mightest deem that men in war unwounded and unweary 
Each upon other rush'd : so fierce and eager was their meeting. 



Nor yet the combatants alike 
Escape from overmatching fate 
But each man of the Troians 
With fire to kindle vonder fleet 



were minded ; for the Achaians 
hop'dnot, but there to perish: 700 
was in his bosom hopeful, 
and slay the Achaian heroes. 
With such forebodings of the heart stood both the hosts confronting. 
At length did Hector touch the poop of that seacoursing vessel, 
Fine-shap'd, swift-rowing o'er the waves, which bare Protesilaiis 
To Troy, — nor brought him back again to his dear native country 
Fighting about this ship, I say, Achaians and Troians 
Did hand to hand each other waste; nor stood apart, awaiting 
The distant arrowshots and darts : but, bent on close encounter, 
As with a single heart possest, with hatchets sharp were fighting 
With axes and with mighty swords and long twohanded lances. 
And many a beauteous-hilted sword, rimm'd with black edge of iron, 

713. iron. The Greek epithet is strictly blacJclound or clackrimmed. I do 
not feel sure of the sense. 



705 



710 



book xv.] THE ILIAD. 273 

Some fell from hands upon the ground, and others from the shoulders, 
Lost with the belts of combatants; and dark earth flow'd with carnage. 
But Hector, when he once had seiz'd the poop, no more would yield it, 
But grasp'd the adornments in his hand, and loudly charg'd the Troians : 

"Fire! bring ye fire ! and eke yourselves, collected, swell the onset. 
Jove granteth now to us a day, which payeth for all others, 
Their ships to capture; which, despite the gods, have hither ventur'd, 720 
And laid much misery on us, thro' folly of our elders : 

Who, when I eager was to fight against the nearest galleys, 
Forbade my marching to the war and stopt my train of people. 
But if widesighted Jupiter did then our counsels cripple, 

Tet now himself impelleth us and urgeth unto daring." 725 

So spake he: they with greater zeal against the Argives sallied. 
No longer then did Ajax wait ; for sore the darts distress'd him : 
Tet but withdrew him step by step, altho' of life despairing, 
And left the even galley's deck, and planted him in ambush 
Upon a bench of seven feet : thence with his spear repell'd he 730 

The Troians from the ship, whoe'er the restless fire might carry. 
And alway to the Danai he call'd with horrid outcry : 

" Friends, heroes of the Danai and ministers of Ares ! 
Be men, my friends ! nor negligent of furious encounter. 
Deem ye, that now reserves we keep auxiliar behind us, 735 

Or any martial rampart, which may men from ruin rescue ? 
No city hold we near at hand, with towers tightly fashion'd, 
Wherein might beaten troops be hid and garrison of peoples. 
But, on the plain of Troians • close-corsleted, we combat 
leaning against the depth of sea, far from our native country. 74<0 
Therefore on daring dawneth light and not on gentle fighting." 

Frenzied he spake, and on the word with pointed weapon follow'd. 
Then whosoe'er of Troians against the hollow galleys 

Bush'd onward with the wasting fire, obeying Hector's summons ; 
Him with long spear did Ajax thrust, forth sallying from ambush. 750 
So laid he prostrate hand to hand twelve men before the galley. 

735. Auxiliar. I imagine the Homeric aosseo to be a softened sound of aoxeo, 
related to aexo % as in Latin auxilium to augeo. 

18 



274 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XVI. 



BOOK XVI. 



k5o far'd the hardy struggle there, around the welldeck'd galley. 
Meanwhile Patroclus stood beside Achilles, people's shepherd, 
Pouring adown his cheek warm tears, as some dark source of waters, 
Which down a stormcapt precipice poureth a murky torrent. 
At sight of him divine Achilles footreliant marvell'd ; 
So he with pitiful address did winged accents utter : 

" Patroclus ! wherefore weepest thou, like to a tender infant, 
Who, tripping at her mother's side and clinging to her garment, 



Imploreth to be lifted up 
And, to be lifted in her arms, 
Like unto her, Patroclus, thou 
Hast haply for the Myrmidons 
Or is to thee alone some news 
Still, as they say, Menoetius, 
And still among the Myrmidons 
Either of whom, by fate's decree 
Or for the Argives sorrowest, 
Beside the smoothly hollow ships 



and hindereth her hurry, 
with many a tear uplooketh : 
the tender teardrop sheddest. 
or for myself a message ? 
arriv'd from distant Phthia ? 
the son of Actor, liveth, 
liveth my father Peleus ; 
remov'd, would sorely grieve us. 
how now their bands are wasted. 



10 



15 



to scourge their proper trespass ? 
Lock not thy breast, but speak it out ; and so, we both shall know it." 
To him with heavy groans didst thou, horseman Patroclus! answer: 20 
" son of Peleus ! Achileus ! far noblest of the Achaians ! 

Take no offence : so fierce distress upon the Achaians presseth. 
For all who formerly bare lead, as bravest of our army, 
Lie prostrate at the galley-side by thrust or flying arrow. 
Lances have Agamemnon pierc'd and spear-renown'd Ulysses, 25 



Arrows have reach'd Eurypylus 
A.bout them the chirurgeons 



and stalwart Diomedes. 
with many a drug are busied, 



Healing their wounds ; but thou art made unhealable, Achilles ! 
Me never may such anger seize, as that which thou dost foster ! 30 
Woe on thy valour ! why should men of future ages bless thee, 
If thou from Argos wiliest not to ward unseemly ruin ? 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 275 

cruel ! never sire to thee was charioteering Peleus, 

Nor Thetis was thy mother : nay, but grey sea-billows bare thee 
And foot-betraying rocks ; so wild, so rugged is thy bosom. 35 

But if, with heart foreboding, thou some heav'nly danger shunnest, 
Which, from the lips of Jupiter, thy queenly mother taught thee, 
Yet me send forward quick, and lend thy other folk behind me 
Of Myrmidons ; so may I bring some ray of light to Argos. 
And on my shoulders grant to me to bear thy proper armour, 40 

If-that perchance the Troians, deluded by my semblance, 

Stand off from battle, and hereby Achaia's warlike children 
Gain respite of their toil ; — and short the respite is of warfare. 
'Twere light for us unwearied, from off the tents and galleys, 
Unto the city back to drive men wearied in combat." 45 

So supplicating spake he then, great simpleton ! for truly 
He for himself did supplicate a direful doom of ruin. 

To him Achilles, fleet of foot, indignantly responded : 

" What utterance was that ? alas, Patroclus Jove-descended ! 
Naught from the lips of Jupiter my queenly mother teacheth, 50 
Nor know I heav'nly oracle to fill with awe my bosom. 

Only, my heart and soul are here by anguish grimly wounded, 
When one, who is in sway and force superiour, delighteth 
His equal to bereave of right, and back his prize to ravish. 

Grim anguish deem I this ; sith I in heart have sorrow suffer'd. 55 
The damsel whom Achaia's sons for me as prize selected, 
Whom by my spear I purchased, a walled city storming, 
Her from my hands did Atreus' son, wide-ruling Agamemnon, 
Snatch from me back again, as tho' from some degraded outcast. 
But leave we these things, past and gone; and any-gait uncomely 60 
Was it, with obstinate resolve for ever to be anger'd. 

Troth ! thought I, never would I stay the fury of my passion, 
Till the loud onset of the war might reach my proper galley. 

Yet thou, my own illustrious arms upon thy shoulders placing, 
Lead the warloving Myrmidons to join the hardy struggle ; 65 

Sith, like a cloud of dusky blue, the Troians now, it seemeth, 
Circle the fleet, o'ermastering ; but on the rough sea-margin 
The Argives lean, hemm'd every way, and hold but scanty portion 



276 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XVI. 



else would they fill the gulleys 
if royal Agamemnon 
around the camp they combat, 
of Diomed Tydides 



Of land remaining; while on them comes all the Troian city, 
Cheery : for they no longer view the frontlet of my helmet 
Within our ranks near glittering : 
By speedy flight with carcases, 
To me were kindly miuded : now 
Nor longer in the skilful grasp 
Rageth the spear, which once would save the Danai from ruin. 
Nor rumour reacheth me as yet, that Atreus' son high shouteth 
From hated mouth : nay, but the voice of hero -slaying Hector 
Cheering his Troians, echoeth rebounding : they, with uproar 

The plain preoccupy, in fray outmatching these Achaians. 

Yet, even so, Patroclus ! thou, to save the fleet from ruin, 
Fall in with overswaying might, lest they the galleys kindle 
With blazing firebrand : so would they of sweet return despoil us. 
But thou, as in thy mind I set a charge complete, — obey me ; 
(So thou from all the Danai shalt mighty honour earn me 

And glory ; who with public train unto my tents shall convoy 
The damsel bright and beautiful, and splendid gifts beside her.)- 
When from the fleet the foe is scar'd, return thou ! or, if haply 
Juno's loud-rumbling spouse on thee bestow some meed of glory, 
Without my presence hanker not to dally in the battle 
With the warloving Troians : and cheaper wilt thou make me 

Nor, my friend, in foeman's play and hero-glee exulting, 
And rieving lives of Troians, to Ilium pursue them ; 

Lest of the gods eternal-born one meet thee from Olympus :- 

And them Apollo Far-averter tenderly doth cherish. 

But turn thee backward, soon as thou some ray of light hast open'd 
Unto the fleet, and leave the hosts upon the plain to bargain. 
Would it might be, — father Jove, Athene and Apollo ! 
That of all Troians who live, and eke of all the Argives, 

Not one from slaughter might escape, and only we survive them : 
Then would we twain, of Ilium o'erthrow the sacred turrets." 
So they reciprocally held betwixt themselves discourses. 

But Ajax might no longer wait; for sore the darts distress'd him. 
The mind of Jove o'ermaster'd him, and lordly-hearted Troians 
With bolts unweary pelting thick. Pelted, around his temples, 



70 



75 



80 



85 



90 



95 



100 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 277 

The shining helm a rattle kept : and pelted was he alway 105 

Over his tight accoutrements. All-weary was his shoulder, — 

The left, — which stedfast ever held his vast and motley buckler : 
Yet they, with darts hard pressing round, to dash him off avail'd not. 
A noisome gasping cramp'd his breast, and down him sweat abundant 
Flow'd from his limbs on every side, nor might he breath recover 110 
And respite gain ; but every where was evil heap'd on evil. 

Utter for me, ye Muses, now, who dwell in high Olympus, 
How first the deadly fire was cast upon the Achaian galleys. 

Hector with Ajax battle join'd. — Hector with mighty sabre 
Above its head of metal smote his foeman's ashen weapon, 115 
And lopt the metal sheer away : so Telamonian Ajax 
Brandish'd in vain the crippled shaft : whose brazen point far falling 
Eang on the ground re-echoing. Then Ajax knew the omen, 
And shudder'd in his blameless soul to see the gods' achievements, 
How Jove high-rumbling utterly did shear away the counsels 120 
Of Argive battle, bent to yield high puissance to the Troians. 
He from the darts withdrew ; but they on the sharp galley scatter'd 
Unweary fire, whose quenchless flame was sudden pour'd across it. 
The busy fire curl'd round the poop, aspiring: but Achilles 
Smote on his thighs with double palm, and thus address'd Patroclus : 1 25 

" Ho ! quick arouse thee, Jove-deriv'd Patroclus courser-guiding I 
The spurting of the foeman's fire behold I by the galleys, 
And if the galleys captur'd be, no more escape remaineth. 
But don thy armour speedily, and I the folk may gather." 129 

When thus he urg'd, Patroclus quick in dazzling brass encas'd him. 
First on his shins the dapper greaves, with silver anklets clever, 
He fasten'd ; but to guard his chest, he took the crafty corslet 
Borne by Pelides fleet of foot, all various and starry. 

About his shoulders next he slung the sword with silver studded, 135 
Brazen of edge ; and after it his buckler great and stubborn: 

And on his gallant head he put the wellwrought leathern helmet 
Bushy with horsetail : dreadfully the crest above it nodded. 
Lastly, he pick'd two valiant spears, unto his grasp adapted. 
Alone, of all the equipments borne by Peleus' spotless offspring, 140 
The lance he took not, — weighty, huge ; which no Achaian chieftain 



278 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XVI. 



Beside might brandish: none but he, Achilles, knew to wield it; 
(An ash of Pelion the shaft, which, from the mountain's summit, 

For his dear father Cheiron gat, to be the death of heroes.) 
The steeds, right speedily he bade Automedon to harness, 145 

Than whom he only honour'd more Achilles hero-crushing; 
Who eke most faithful was to him in fight, to bide upbraidment. 
For him Automedon did haste to yoke the nimble coursers, 
Chesnut and Spotted, both of whom flew swiftly as the breezes ; 
Whom, as along a lea she graz'd beside the stream of Ocean, 150 
Spry-footed Harpy bare of yore unto the breezy Zephyr. 
But blameless Pedasus beside in the flank-traces slung he, 

Whom from Eetion's domain Achilles took for booty ; 

Who, mortal as he was, kept pace with those immortal coursers. 
But, visiting the Myrmidons meanwhile, Achilles arm'd them 155 

All in their tents with panoply of helmet, shield, and corslet. 
And they, as rawdevouriug wolves, who hardihood unfathom'd 
Hold in their heart, and on the fells a mighty stag with antlers 
Have caught and mangled; bloody-red their chaps are all distained ; 
And they in company advance, from some dark source of waters 160 
With slender-lolling tongues to lap the dusky-tinted water 
Prom off the surface : forth they belch death-gore, and in their bosoms 
Intrepid doth their heart abide, tho' pinched is their belly : 
Such then did all the Myrmidons with governours and leaders, 
Obeying swift iEacides, around his brave companion 165 

Fierce circle: and in midst of them stood warriour Achilles 
Urging the shielded men to war and eke the fiery horses. 

Fifty the galleys sharp of prow were counted, which Achilles, 
Belov'd of Jupiter, to Troy had led ; and fifty heroes, 

His comrades, came with every one, upon the benches seated : 170 

Five governours he made, to whom he trusted, to command them 
Under his guidance : but himself supreme of sway was leader. 

151. Homer perhaps conceived of Harpy as a flying mare. The Harpies 
elsewhere are ravenous monsters, griffins. Harpy there may be translated 
Rapacious, but here Rapid. The Greek root Harp is the Latin Rap ; and in 
Homer the cognate roots Karp, Kraf, denote Speed. Some may choose to 
render it, "The Harpy Spry-foot bare of yore" : See 19, 400. 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 279 

One of the bands Menesthius with motley corslet guided, 

Who claim'd Spercheius as his sire, a never-resting river, 

Streaming from Jove. Him Peleus 5 child, the beauteous Polydora, 175 

Bare to Spercheius, — woman weak to an immortal wedded ; 

Yet Bonis was his sire esteem'd, the son of Perieres, 

Who boundless dower paid for her, and led her into bridal. 

Commander of the second band was warriour Eudorus, 

A hero maiden-born : but him fair-dancing Polymela, 180 

Daughter of Phylas, gave to life, whom the brave Argus-killer 

Beheld, and lov'd her, as she danc'd amid the virgin-comrades 

Of golden-shafted Artemis, the ever-whooping huntress. 

Forthwith, good-fellow Hermeas, into her chamber mounting, 

Lay at her side by stealth ; and she a brilliant offspring gave him, 185 

Eudorus, swift of foot to run, and terrible in combat. 

But when at length the goddess, who on painful childbirth waiteth, 

Woke him to light of day, and he beheld this sunny splendour ; 

Then Echecles of stalwart might, the son of Actor, paying 

Uncounted dower, led away the mother to his chambers; 190 

But aged Phylas took the child and nurtur'd him discreetly, 

Fondly embracing him with love, as tho' his proper offspring. 

Over the third battalion stood the warriour Peisander, 

The son of Maemalus ; but he to wield the spear was signal 

Beyond all other Myrmidons, except Pelides' comrade. 195 

Over the fourth battalion went old charioteering Phoenix ; 

Over the fifth Alkimedon, Laerkes' spotless offspring. 

But when Achilles, picking well, had station'd them in order 

Beside their leaders, then to all he stern monition added : 

" Myrmidons, let none, I pray, forget the words of menace, 200 
Which at the Troians did ye at the sharp galleys threaten, 

During my day of anger, when ye every one rebuk'd me : — 
' cruel son of Peleus ! troth, on gall thy mother fed thee ; 
Heartless! who keepest by the ships thy comrades sore unwilling. 
Right homeward let us wend our way with sea-careering galleys, 205 
Returning; sith so evil rage upon thy soul hath fallen.' — 

To me, assembled, thus ye spake ofttime : and now appeareth 
181. Hermeas slew Argus, who persecuted Io. (2, 103.) 



280 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XVI. 



The mighty work of battle-cry, for which ye erst did hanker ; 

Here then to right with Troians let each have valiant spirit." 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited ; 210 

And when their monarch's voice they heard, more close the ranks did pack 

As when with wellcompacted stones a man may featly fashion [them. 

For some highroofed house a wall, to screen the force of tempests ; 

So fitted then were bossy shields and horsetail-crested helmets. 

For helmet was by helmet screen'd, and buckler propt by buckler, 215 

And warriour by warriour : the plumed helmets waving 

With ridges bright each other touch'd : so thick they stood together. 

And in the front of all, two men stood forth complete in armour, 

possest of single spirit, 
Meanwhile, Achilles hied him 
the lid, that clos'd a coffer, 
the silverfooted Thetis 



220 



225 



and cleansed it with brimstone 
with dainty streams of water. 



Patroclus and Automedon, 

To head the Myrmidons in fight. 

Into his tent : there open'd he 

Dainty and varied ; which to him 

Had plac'd for convoy on the ship, well-fill'd with under-raiment 

And cloaks, — a shelter from the blast, and curly-haired carpets. 

Therein besides a goblet lay, well-carved ; nor from out it 

Did other man than Achileus drink ever wine resplendent, 

Nor he to other god would pour, save unto Jove the Father. 

Out of the coffer this he took 

First ; afterward besprinkled it 

Himself besprinkled eke his hands, and fill'd with wine the goblet. 

Then standing midmost in his court, he pray'd, and made libation, 

With eyes to heaven rais'd ; and Jove the thunderloving knew it 

" Lord Jupiter, enthron'd afar, Pelasgo-Dodoneean ! 
Thou who Dodona's winter-land o'erswayest ! and around thee 
Dwell with unwashen feet thy seers the ground-encouched Selli. 
In former time to my request already hast thou listen'd ; 

Didst honour me, and mightily hast harm'd the Achaian people : 
Now, once again implor'd, do thou this wish for me accomplish. 
Myself by galley-side shall stay, in theatre of battle, 
But with the trooping Myrmidons my comrade send I forward 240 
To combat: now, widesighted Jove! on him bestow successes. 
With mighty courage strengthen thou his heart ; whereby shall Hector 
Learn, whether our companion dear even without my presence 



230 



235 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 281 

Knoweth to combat, or his hands untractable are frantic 
Then only, when I hie with him mid the turmoil of Ares. 245 

But after from the galleys he the din of fight have chased, 

May he to me forthwith return and reach the galleys scatheless, 
With comrades, round his side who fight, and all my curious armour." 

Such was his word of prayer ; and Jove the Counsellor attended. 
To one petition listen'd he ; the other he rejected. 250 

Tar from the ships to drive away the battle's present danger, 
He granted ; but the safe return from battle, this he gave not. 
The prince, — libation now complete, and pray'r to Jove the Father, — 
Eeturning to his tent, replac'd the goblet in the coffer ; 
Then forth proceeded from the tent, and still in soul did hanker 255 
To watch the deadly battle-cry of Troians and Achaians. 

But they, accoutred and arrang'd with mighty-soul'd Patroclus, 
March'd steadily, till on they rush' d with ardour at the foeman. 
In sally swarmed they forthwith, like wasps, who hold their houses 
By the roadside ; whom children weak are wont in sport to harry, 261 
Tormenting alway ; bringing eke a common woe on many. 
Tor if some traveller perchance unwilling now bestir them, 
With valiant bosom forth they fly, to combat for their children. 265 
Such heart and spirit cherishing, the Myrmidon battalions 
Then from the galleys sallied out ; and clamour rose incessant. 
Patroclus too his comrades charg'd, with voice uplifted shouting : 

"O Myrmidons, who comrades are of Peleus' son, Achilles ! 
Be men, my friends, nor negligent of furious encounter; 270 

So shall we honour Peleus' son, who bravest is of Argives 
Beside the galleys, and the squires who fight around his buckler. 
So shall we teach to Atreus' son, wide-ruling Agamemnon, 
His folly, who perversely scorn'd the noblest of the Achaians." 

He, by such words, in every breast spirit and strength excited. 275 
Quick on the Troians they fell, collected ; and the galleys 
Responded with terrific crash, beneath the Achaians shouting. 

But when the Troians saw the chief, Menoetius' brave offspring, 
Himself and eke his charioteer, in all their armour sparkling, 
The heart of all held grim debate, and their battalions trembled; 280 
Deeming that by the galley-side the lordly-soul'd Pelides 



282 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XVI. 



At length his anger had renounc'd, and chose the bonds of friendship. 
So each did singly look around, to scape headlong destruction. 

Patroclus first with shining spear into the middle darted, 285 

Where most were justled, near the poop of great Protesilaiis. 
Over the plum'd Paeonians Pyraechmes there was leader, 

Who brought them from far Amydon and Axius wide-flowing. 
On the right shoulder him it hit ; so, groaning fell he prostrate 
Down in the dust, and round his corpse his dear companions trembled, 
His own Paeonians : sith all Patroclus fill'd with terror, 291 

Slaying their champion, who held the primacy of valour. 
Thus from the beach he drave them ofl',andquench'd the fire that sparkled ; 
And there the half-burnt ship was left. With an unearthly clamour 
The Troian army took to flight : the Danai pursued them 295 

Forthwith, and unremitting din arose along the galleys. 
As when from off the summit high of some cloudcompass'd mountain 
May lightning -wreathing Jupiter withdraw the veil of dimness; 
And every lofty peak is shown, and headland edge and forest, 
And from behind the cloven dun unfathom'd heaven gleameth; 300 
So, for awhile, the Danai, repelling from the galleys 

The foeman's fire, did breath regain: yet was no pause of battle. 
For not yet did the Troians to flight straightforward scuffle, 

Scar'd from the dusky ships, beneath the Achaians dear to Ares, 304 
But still they party-wise withstood and but perforce withdrew them. 

Thereon each man his fellow slew, when scatter'd was the struggle, 
Among the leaders. First of them, Menoetius' brave offspring, 
While-as Areilycus was turn'd, pierc'd thro' his thigh entirely 
With pointed spear, and crush' d the bone : he to the earth fell headlong. 
But Menelas to Ares dear struck Thoas in the bosom 311 

Beside the buckler open left, and there unstrung his sinews. 

And Phyleus' son, in ambush hid, caught Amphiclus in sally, - 
Piercing the pillar of his leg, where thew of man is thickest : 315 

The weapon's point his sinews rent, and darkness veil'd his eyen. 
Of Nestor's sons, Antilochus with piercing sidestab wounded 

Atymnius, who dropt in front ; then for his brother, Maris, 
Eush'd angry, and before the dead stood firm: but Thrasymedes, 320 
Ere Maris might a wound implant, did instant fix his weapon 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 283 

Into the shoulder, brake the bone, and stript the limb of sinew : 
So, with a loud crash down he fell, and darkness veil'd his eyen. 325 
Thus by two brethren brethren twain, Sarpedon's brave companions, 
Skilful in darting, overmatch'd, to Erebus descended: 
Whose sire the dread Chimsera rear'd, a pest to many mortals. 

Ajax, Oileus' son, rush'd in, and captur'd Cleobulus 330 

Alive, entangled in the rout ; but quick with hilted weapon 

Smote on his neck, and warm'd the sword with ruddy-reeking slaughter. 
There crimson Death his eyen press'd, and Destiny resistless. 

Then Lycon met Peneleos. With spears they miss'deach other, 

Darting in vain ; thereat with swords together ran : and Lycon, 336 
Smiting the horsehair helmet's crest, snapt at the hilt his sabre. 
But deep the foeman's griding sword within his neck descended : 
His head by skin alone hung on, and there his limbs lay helpless. 340 

But Merion, with active feet quick overhending, wounded 
In the right shoulder Acamas, when he would mount his horses : 
So fell he from the car, and mist lay heavy on his eyelids. 

But prince Idomeneus drave on the ruthless brazen weapon 345 
Eight through the mouth of Ery mas : beneath the brain it enter'd, 
The white bones splintering : and out the teeth were dash'd : his eyen 
Were filled both with blood : but it out of his mouth and nostrils 
He spurted gasping : so did Death with dusky cloud enshroud him. 350 
Such leaders of the Danai slew every man his fellow. 

As noisome wolves on lambs or kids dart, from the flock selecting, 
Which by the keeper's witlessness along the fells is scatter'd ; 
The beasts, beholdirig, sudden snatch the feeble-hearted quarry: 355 
Thus upon Troians Danai did pounce ; but those, surrender'd 

To shrieking flight, forgetful were of valorous resistance. 

But mighty Ajax aiway long'd at brazenhelmed Hector 
To hurl his weapon : he in turn, in fierce encounter skilful, 
With breadth of shoulder al way screen' d beneath his shield of bullhide, 
Had shelter from the noisy darts and hurtle of the arrows. 361 

In sooth, the foe's recruited strength he saw, and tide of fortune ; 
Yet stood he, even so, awhile, and sav'd his dear companions. 

But as when, after sky serene, from summit of Olympus 
328. Homer names the sire, Amisodarus. 



284 THE ILIAD. [book xvi. 

Cometh a cloud o'er heaven's face, if Jove a squall deviseth; - 365 
So shriek and terror, scowl aud squall, o'erspread the Troian array, 
Eepell'd in not decorous flight. Then by his nimble horses 
Hector with heavy armour scap'd, and left his host of people, 
All whom the deep-entrenched moat behind him kept unwilling. 
And chariot-trailing nimble steeds, within the moat entangled. 370 
The pole short snapping, many left their lords' equipment crippled. 
Meanwhile Patroclus urgently pursued, the Argives cheering, 

Fierce-minded to the Troians. But they with scream and panic 

Fill'd all the paths, once that their bands were scatter'd : and to heaven 
High rose a dust-tornado, whilst the single-hoofed horses 375 

Back from the galleys and the tents did spank toward the city. 
But where Patroclus saw the folk in worst annoy bewilder'd, 
Thither with cheeriug hurried he : and men beneath the axles 
Fell headlong from the chariots : and cars were rattled over. 
Then, onward hasting in career, the nimble-footed horses, 380 

Immortal, which, as brilliant gifts the gods bestow'd on Peleus, 
Outright did overleap the moat : for he on Hector cheer'd them, 
To overhend him bent ; but him the speedy coursers rescued. 

Andasbeneath a tempest's weight all the dark earth is loaded 
Upon a day of autumn, when his greatest glut of water 385 

Jove poureth down, if he with men be wrathfully indignant, 
Who in assembly of the folk by force give crooked verdict, 

And Justice rudely drive away, the gods' observance slighting : 
Then all the flowing hollow brooks from the high clouds are filled, 
And many a steep outstanding cliff is rent by gush' of waters, 390 

Which streaming to the purple sea right headlong from the mountains 
Eesound with mighty moan, the while the works of men they ruin : 
So mightily the Troian mares in fleet careering moaned. 

Patroclus, when his course had cut the foremost bands asunder, 
Back to the galleys hemm'd them in, reversing ; so he thwarted 395 

Their aim, the city-walls to reach : but twixt the ships and river 
And lofty rampart slaughter'd them, and forfeit took for many. 
There Pronoiis with shining spear he wounded in the bosom 
Beside his buckler open left, and straight unstrung his sinews; 

So, with aloud crash down he dropt. Next Thestor, son of Enops, 401 



book xvt.] THE ILIAD. 285 

By second sally. Close he sat, in chariot well polish'd 
Coop'd up, in panic, frenzy-struck. Erom out his hands the bridles 
Dropt to the ground. But close at hand, thro' his right cheek the foeman 
Urg'd-on the spear,betwixt his teeth; then o'er the car's rim drew him 
Haul'd by the weapon ; as a man, who sits on rock outjutting, 406 
With line and dazzling brass may draw a sacred fish from ocean : 
So from the seat with shining spear he drew his gasping captive, 
And cast him full upon his face : so there his spirit left him. 410 
Thereafter, with a stone he struck the rushing Erylaiis 
Upon the head direct, and clave in twain the weighty helmet. 
Headlong to earth he fell, and him soul-crushing Death enshrouded. 
Then Erymas, Amphoterus, Tlepolemus, Epaltes, 415 

Ipheus, Euippus, Echius, Pyris and Polymelus ; 

All these successive cast he down on Earth the manyfeeder. 

But when Sarpedon, son of Jove, saw his ungirdled comrades 
Beneath the Myrmidonian chief subdued in strife of Ares, 420 

He to the godlike Lycians with harsh invective shouted : 

"Shame! whither flee ye, Lycians ? in sooth, ye now are nimble. 
But I myself will meet this man ; so shall I well inform me, 
Who is the chief, that swayeth wide with noyance to the Troians, 
And who of many a gallant soul hath cast the body helpless." 425 

He spake, and from his chariot leapt to the ground in armour. 
Patroclus on the other side leapt also, when he saw it, 

Out of the chariot : and they, as two hook-beaked vultures, 

Crook-talon'd, on a lofty rock with mighty screams may combat ; 

So these with terrible uproar each upon other sallied. 430 

With pity seeing them, the child of crooked-witted Saturn, 
Did to his sister and his wife, Juno, address his sorrow : 

" Alas for me ! that Destiny by cruel sentence doometh 
Sarpedon, dearest of mankind, to perish by Patroclus. 
My heart by double thoughts is torn, and faltereth my purpose, 435 

Whether to snatch him still alive from out the tearful battle, 
And plant him safe on Lycia, in his fat soil of plenty, 

408. Sacred fish. I cannot he pleased by the interpretation, a fish of God, 
i. e. huge. Whales and grampuses are not caught by line and hook, nor sharks 
by one man sitting on a rock. I think a special kind of fish must be intended. 



286 THE ILIAD. [book xvi. 

Or unto death resign him, slain by prowess of Patroclus." 

To him with word reciprocal spake large-ey'd queenly Juno : 
" son of Saturn, grim and dire, what saying hast thou blurted? 440 
A man, who mortal is of birth, long syne by doom predestin'd, 
Him from sadwailing Aides dost ponder to deliver ? 

Do it : but we, the other gods, not all shall praise thy doing. 
This also will I say, — and thou within thy bosom cast it : 
If to his own abode and home alive thou send Sarpedon, 445 

Think, may not other eke of gods desire his own dear offspring 
Safe to deliver and alive, from out the hardy struggle ? 

For many are embattled now round Priam's mighty city, 

Born from immortal gods; in whom thou direful wrath wilt nourish. 
But if thy son is dear, and if thy heart with pity waileth ; 450 

His body now resign to death, slain in the hardy struggle, 
And glory to Patroclus give, Menoetius' brave offspring. 

But, when his time of life is gone and breath hath left his body ; 
Then balmy Slumber send and Death, as convoy to escort him, 
Till in widespreading Lycia they reach his proper country. 455 

His brothers and his kinsfolk there meet burial shall yield him, 
Withflames, with pillar and withmound; which are the deadman'shonour." 

She spake, nor uncompliant found the sire of gods and mortals. 
He shed from heaven gory drops his loved son to honour, 460 

Who far from home, in loamy Troy, must perish by Patroclus. 

When they to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 
Patroclus struck in lowest lap the famous Thrasymelus, 

The prince Sarpedon's bonny squire, and there unstrung his sinews. 465 
Sarpedon, second aiming, miss'd his foeman's self, but wounded 
The mortal courser Pedasus, — on his right shoulder lighting 
With shining spear. He groan'd,andfell,andgasp'd, and breath'd no longer. 
The others swerv'd apart: the yoke creak'd loudly, and the bridles 470 
Were tangled, sith the outer horse in dust and death was prostrate. 
But spear-renown'd Automedon the troublous danger ended : 
For, drawing from his brawny thigh his longedg'd hanging cutlass, 
In sallied he, and slash'd away the out-horse, nor was foiled. 
The living steeds came clear and straight, and duly stretch'd the traces, 
But the two heroes met once more for soul-devouring quarrel. 476 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 287 

Again Sarpedon vainly threw the long farshining weapon ; 
For harmlessly the noyance past over Patroclus' shoulder, 
Missing him on the left : then he not vainly flung his weapon, 480 
But hit, where round the ceaseless heart the membranes weave a curtain. 
Then toppled he, as may an oak or some white poplar topple, 
Or pine upon the mountain-side tall-shooting, which for timber 
Ship-carpenters have inly chopt with newly- whetted axes : 
So he, before his chariot and coursers, lay extended, 485 

Gnashing his teeth, — the gory dust with hand convulsive clutching. 
And as a lion, mid the herd of clumsy-footed oxen, 

Picking hath slain a flame-hued bull, high-fronted, mighty-hearted, 
And he beneath the lion's jaws with many a bellow dieth ; 
So slain beneath Patroclus then with many a moan Sarpedon, 490 
Lord of the shielded Lycians, call'd on his dear companion : 

" Glaucus, my friend ! thou warrionr mid heroes ! now, if ever, 
A thorough spearman prove thyself, and warriour intrepid. 
Now, if thy heart be keen and true, let evil war delight thee. 
First, visit all the Lycians, throughout their wide battalions, 

And rouse their chiefest men to fight around Sarpedon's body. 496 

Next eke thyself, my friend! forme well quit thyself in battle. 
For I in after-days to thee a contumely and scandal 

At every time continuous shall be, if yon Achaians 

Strip me, who fall before the fleet in view of either army. 500 

But hold to battle sturdily, and urge my host of people." 

Thus when he spake, all-ending Death his eyes and nostrils cover'd. 
The victor, tramping on his breast, drew out the spear, and with it 
Follow'd the membrane of his heart and all his breathing spirit. 505 
Meanwhile the crew of Myrmidons his puffing steeds arrested, 
Eager to flee, sithence the car was by their lords abandon'd. 

But anguish grim on Glaucus came, to hear his friend adjure him. 
His heart was earnestly bestirr'd, in helplessness of vengeance. 
Grasping he pinch'd his arm, thereat, where Teucer's arrow gall'd him, 
Shot from the lofty wall, to ward disaster from his comrades. 511 
Then supplicating, he implor'd Apollo the far-darting : 

" Hear me, O prince ! who haply art in Lycia's fat country 
Now, or in Troas. Everywhere thou able art to listen, 515 



283 THE ILIAD. [book xvi. 

"When man in trouble is, as now am I by trouble harried. 
Me troubleth this sore-galling wound. My hand with piercing anguish 
Is wrung, nor may the blood be stanch'd; which doth my shoulder burden. 
Nor firmly can I hold my spear, nor fight against the foeman. 520 
Fallen, behold ! a hero-chief, the son of Jove, Sarpedon, 

Whose Father standeth off, nor would his proper offspring rescue. 
But thou, prince ! heal thou my wound, and lull the fretting sorrow, 
And grant me puissance to exhort my Lycians to combat, 525 

While I, to save our chieftain's corpse, do manfully acquit me." 

So he his prayer uttered, and bright Apollo heard him. 

Forthwith the fretting pangs he quell'd, and round the gash so troublous 
He stanch'd the dusky gore, and breath'd high prowess in his bosom. 
But Glaucus inwardly discern'd; and in his heart was joyful, 530 
That speedily the mighty god had to his prayer listen'd. 

First, visiting the Lycians, throughout their wide battalions, 

He rous'd their chiefest men to fight around Sarpedon's body. 
But after, to the Troians with mighty strides he hied him, 

To Panthus' son Polydamas and to divine Agenor ; 535 

Also iEneias sought he out, and brazen-helmed Hector, 

And standing close in front of them harangu'd in winged accents : 

" Now, Hector ! thou of thy allies art utterly forgetful, 
Who far from friends and land of birth our very souls do lavish 
In sake of thee: but thou, methinks, not eager art to aid us. 540 

The lord of shielded Lycia, who erst, by rightful verdicts 

And prowess, Lycia upheld, — Sarpedon, — prostrate lieth. 

Him brazen Ares vanquish'd hath beneath Patroclus' weapon. 
But friends ! stand nobly at his side, and be in hearts indignant, 
Lest-that the crew of Myrmidons his armour strip, and outrage 545 
The person of the dead, enrag'd for loss of many comrades, 
The Danai, whom we beside their galleys sharp have slaughter'd." 

When thus he spake, the Troians from head to foot were seized 
By sorrow irrepressible, unyielding ; sith their city 

Held him a bulwark, tho' of soil foreign ; for many peoples 550 
Came with him: in them he himself held primacy of valour. 
So straight against the Danai they fiercely rush'd : for Hector 

Headed them, by Sarpedon's fall embitter'd. But the Achaians, 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 289 

Them did Patroclus' shaggy heart encourage : first he turn'd him, 
The two Ajaces to exhort, themselves already eager : 555 

" Ajaces ! take ye pleasure now, reciprocal to combat, 
Such as mid heroes heretofore ye were, or even braver. 
Prostrate the chieftain lies, who first did scale the Achaian rampart, — 
Sarpedon. Oh ! if now we might for outrage seize his body, 
And from his shoulders strip his arms, and eke of his companions 560 
With ruthless weapon some lay low, who fight their lord to rescue." 

So charged he : but they themselves for battle-strife were eager. 
After-that they on either side had strengthen'd the battalions, 

Then Lycians and Myrmidons and Troians and Achaians 
Around the carcase of the slain in shock of adverse combat 565 
Hurried together, yelling fierce ; and direful clang'd their armour. 
And Jove a deadly darkness spread over the bitter struggle 
For strife of deathful hardiment around his son beloved. 

Then first the Troians repell'd the curling-ey'd Achaians, 
When of the Myrmidons was slain a hero not the weakest, 570 

Offspring of godlike Agacles. the mighty-soul'd Epeigeus, 

Who as a prince had oversway'd Budeium thickly peopled 
In former day ; but having slain a kinsman bold, he hied him 
As suppliant to Peleus' hearth and silverfooted Thetis : 
Who with their hero-crushing son in train of battle sent him 575 
To courser-famous Ilium for combat with the Troians. 

Him gallant Hector with a stone hit, as he touch'd the carcase, 
Upon the head direct, and clave in twain the weighty helmet. 
Prone on the corpse he fell, and him soul-crushing Death enshrouded. 
But anguisli on Patroclus came, to see his comrade fallen. 581 

Straight thro' the foremost ranks he dash'd, like to a gliding falcon, 
Swift-sousing, fraught with sore dismay to noisy daws and starlings : 
So thou upon the Lycians, Patroclus courser-guiding ! 

And on the Troians, diddest plunge, enrag'd for thy companion. 585 
With a huge stone the hero hit the neck of Sthenelaiis 
Ithaemenes' beloved son, and tare away the tendons. 

Back then the foremost ranks withdrew, and gallant Hector with them. 
Tar as a lengthy javelin a man may fling on trial 590 

In public game, or e'en in war against heartcrushing foemen, 

19 



290 THE ILIAD. [book xvi. 

So far withdrew the Troians ; so far the Achaians drave them. 

But Glaucus, rallying anew first of the Troian army, 
Leading the shielded Lycians, slew Bathycles highhearted, 
Whose loving father Chalcon was; a man who dwelt in Hellas, 595 
Signal among the Myrmidons for affluence of plenty. 

Him Glaucus wounded with the spear in middle of the bosom, 
Turning upon him sudden, when in fleet pursuit he caught him. 
So with a loud crash down he fell. Deep sorrow seiz'd the Achaians, 
Sith fallen was a noble man ; but much rejoic'd the Troians. 600 

So then, assembled round the corpse stood they : nor yet the Achaians 
Prowess forgat, but on the foe onslaught straightforward carried. 

By Merion, Laogonus was hent, a full-arm'd Troian, 

Onetor's hardy son ; whose sire to Jupiter Idseus 
A priest was made, and by the folk e'en as a god was honour'd. 605 
Him Merion betwixt the ear and jaw did strike, and quickly 

Out of his members life was flown, and hateful darkness hent him. 
iEneias next at Merion his brazen weapon darted, 

Hoping to hit him, as he march'd beneath his buckler's covert. 
He, seeing it, by scanty space the flying point avoided, 610 

Stooping him forward : far away, the lengthy spear behind him 
In earth alighted ; where its force made the shaft's end to quiver, 
Until rude-hurtling Ares gave remission of his fury. 
[Thus, far behind him in the earth iEneias' spear was planted, 
Strong quivering ; and fruitlessly his sturdy arm impell'd it.] 615 
Then anger seiz'd iEneias' heart, and at his foeman scoff'd he : 
" Meriones, thou dancest well ; yet haply to thy dancing 
My spear a thorough end had brought, had I attain'd to hit thee." 

Then spear-renown' d Meriones accosted him responsive : 
" iEneias, valiant tho' thou art, 'tis hard for thee to cripple 620 
The might of every man, whoe'er in battle may confront thee. 
Mortal are thou also : but if I might in turn be lucky 

With a full hit, then thou, so bold and trusting in thy prowess, 
To me shalt glory yield, and life to charioteering Pluto." 625 

He spake ; but brave Patroclus then rebuk'd him with rejoinder : 
*' O Merion ! we know thee brave : yet why such words haranguest ? 

614, 15. These two lines seem to be wrongly repeated from 13, 504. 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 291 

Not for reproachful words, my friend ! the Troians will yield them 
From carcase of the slain ; but first must earth hold many a hero. 
Issue of battle is from might ; of wordy war, from counsel. 630 

Therefore no weight of words we need, but hardihood of combat." 

He spake, and led the way ; behind, the godlike hero follow'd. 
As when the woodman's steady axe in thickets of a mountain 
From many a hand drops ponderous, and far is heard its echo ; 
So from the broad expanse of land their noise resounding echoed, 635 
While sabres and twohanded pikes clash'd against brass and bullhide. 
Hard was it for a thoughtful man to know divine Sarpedon, 
So was he wrapt from head to foot in dust and gore and weapons. 640 
And alway throng'd they round the dead, as flies round milkful buckets 
Swarm noisy thro' the stalls in spring, when pails with milk are wetted; 
Thus (say I) round the dead they throng'd. Nor from the hardy struggle 
Did Jove a moment turn away his ever-beaming eyen, 645 

But alway gaz'd unceasingly to watch it, and bethought him 

Much pondering with doubtful heart on slaughter of Patroclus ; 
Whether already, there and then, amid the hardy struggle 
Should gallant Hector him also over divine Sarpedon 
Waste with the weapon, and despoil the armour from his shoulders ; 
Or first to other combatants should the bluff toil be doubled. 

After such ponderings of thought he deemed it were wiser, 
Still further should the bonny squire of Peleus' son Achilles 
Harry the Troian arms away with brazenhelmed Hector, 

And hem them to the city-wall and doom more lives to carnage. 655 

So into Hector first of all he breath'd unwaiiike panic ; 

Who knew the sacred scales of Jove, and, on his car upleaping, 
To flight betook him, calling loud that all should flee beside him. 
Then not the valiant Lycians stood firm, but all were scatter'd 

In terror, sith their king they saw with deadly wound heartstricken, 
Prone in assembly of the dead : for many fell around him, 661 

When o'er his body Saturn's child outstretch'd the hardy combat. 
Then from his shoulders stript the foe the armour of Sarpedon, 
Brazen and all-resplendent : this, Menoetius' brave offspring 
To his companions gave, to bear unto the hollow galleys. 665 

Then cloud-collecting Jupiter address'd him to Apollo : 



292 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XVI, 



" Go now, dear Shining one! draw forth Sarpedon from the weapons : 
Cleanse off the cloudy gore, apart ; in living waters bathe him ; 
Anoint him with ambrosia, and wrap ambrosial raiment 670 

Around his sacred form; and send, as convoy to escort him, 
Slumber and Death, twin-bretheren; that speedily they place him 
Upon wide-spreading Lycia, within his own fat country. 

His brothers and his kinsfolk there meet burial shall yield him, 
With flames, with pillar and with mound, which are the dead man's honour." 

So, spake he : nor Apollo then did disobey his father, 676 

And down from Ida's tops he went to the grim cry of battle. 
Straightway, uplifting, forth he drew Sarpedon from the weapons ; 
Cleans'd off the cloudy gore, apart ; in living waters bath'd him ; 
Ointed him with ambrosia, and wrapt ambrosial raiment 680 

Around his sacred form ; and sent, as convoy to escort him, 
Slumber and Death, twin-bretheren : who speedily replac'd him 



within his own fat country. 
Patroclus follow'd, cheering 
and direful was his folly, 
the bidding of Pelides, 
he verily had scaped, 
the wit of Jove is higher : 
and victory despoileth 
himself to battle stirreth : 



Upon wide-spreading Lycia, 

On Troians and Lycians 
His coursers and Automedon ; 
Infatuate ! for had he kept 
From evil doom of murky death 
But alway than the wit of man 
Who doth the valorous affright, 
Eight easily ; bat other while 

W T ho then into his bosom breath'd this surplusage of valour. 
Then who was first and who was last a sport of death and plunder, 
Patroclus! when the heav'nly fates invited thee to ruin? 
Adrastus and Autonoiis, Epistor, Melanippus, 

Elas, Echeclus, Perimus, Mulius and Pylartes : 

All these he slaughter'd; but the rest did each of flight bethink them. 
Then had Achaia's children storm'd Troy's lofty-gated city 
Beneath Patroclus' hands : — for dire the fury of his weapon : — 
But bright Apollo stood aloft upon the well-built tower 700 

Bearing against him deadly wrath, and kindly to the Troians. 
Eor thrice upon the parapet which from the rampart jutted 

Patroclus climb'd on high ; and thrice Apollo dash'd him backward, 
[Repressing with immortal hands his all-resplendent buckler. 



685 



690 



695 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 293 

But when the fourth time on he sped, like to a mighty Spirit, 705 

Then did Apollo Far-averter speak with direful menace : 

"Beware, Patroclus! and retire; nor deem that fate alloweth 
The walls of haughty Troians by thy assault to totter : 

Not even by Achilles' self, a man than thee far stronger." 

Aw'd by the immortal voice, the chief an ample space retir'd him, 710 
And yielded ; shunning to enrage Apollo the far-darting. 

But Hector in the Skseans kept his singlehoofed horses ; 
Debating, whether back to drive and fight amid the tumult, 
Or all his scatter'd folk exhort to coop them in the city. 
While thus he ponder'd, lo ! advanc'd beside him bright Apollo, 715 
Like to his kinsman Asius, a warriour intrepid ; — 

Own brother he to Hecuba, who mother was to Hector, 

Yet youthful was he still for war : but Dymas was his father, 
Who on the banks of Sangarus in Phrygia did habit ; — 
Like unto him, the son of Jove Apollo spake to Hector: 720 

"Hector, why pausest thou from fight? such pausing, thee misseemeth. 
Oh that, as weaker I than thee, by so much I were stronger ! 
Not to thy joy then wouldest thou, mayhap, thus start from battle. 
But come ! against Patroclus urge the flinty-footed horses. 
Him mayest thou o'ermaster, if Apollo give thee glory." 725 

This said, again the god was mix'd amid the toil of heroes. 
To skilful-soul' d Kebriones thereat did gallant Hector 

Give order, mid the war to lash his coursers. But Apollo 
Hied him to enter mid the throng, and breathing in the Argives 
Evil confusion, glory gave to Hector and the Troians. 730 

All other Danai the chief pass'd by, nor car'd to slay them ; 

But straight against Patroclus urg'd the flinty-footed horses : 
Patroclus, he too on the earth from off the car alighted. 

His left hand held the spear; his right, around a boulder curling, 735 
Which rugged sparkled, heav'd it high : nor long aloof withheld him, 
But hurl'd it fiercely: not in vain; but struck the squire of Hector, 
Kebriones, a meaner son to high-renowned Priam, [not. 

Pull in the forehead: both the brows were crush'd ; the skull withstood 
Out of his face his eyes were torn : so plung'd he, like a diver, 
Down from the well wrought car ; and there did life forsake his body. 



294 THE ILIAD. [book xvi. 

Then thou, Patroclus charioteer ! diddest with scoff address him : 
" Ye Spirits! what a nimble man ! how easily he tumbleth ! 745 

If somewhere on the lishful sea to dive for oysters lik'd him, 
He many a mouth might glut, from high in crabbed weather plunging : 
As now upon the plain so light he tumbleth from the horses. 
So eke the Troians, I ween, have many a clever tumbler." 750 

After such utterance, he hied against the fallen hero, 
With rush like to a lion's rush, who, ravaging the stables, 
Hath on the bosom felt a wound, and his ow r n valour slays him ; — 
So eager on Kebriones didst thou, Patroclus, cast thee ■ 

But Hector, he too on the earth from off the car alighted. 755 

The twain around Kebriones made contest, like two lions, 

Which, both with empty craving maw, and both with lordly spirits, 
Around a slaughter'd doe may fight upon a mountain -summit ; 
So then around Kebriones twain counsellors of onset, 

Patroclus son of Actor's son and motley-helmed Hector, 760 

Hanker'd with ruthless brass to gash the body, each of other. 
But Hector, when he once had seiz'd the head, no more would yield it ; 
Patroclus firmly grasp'd in turn the foot : meanwhile the others, 
Both Troians and Danai, commingled hardy struggle. 

As blowing from the East and South within a mountain's hollows 765 
The winds hold controversy sore a close -grown copse to shatter, 
Of diverse timber, — beech and ash, and lanky-leafed corneil ; 
Which, each upon the other, grind their long-outreaching branches 
With rustling scratch; and when they snap, unearthly is the crackle : 
So Troians and Achaians then, each upon other springing, 770 
Made havoc, nor did either side disastrous fear remember. 
And round Kebriones were fix'd sharp-pointed lances many, 
And many winged arrow-shafts off leaping from the bowstring; 
And many a sturdy boulderstone dash'd heavy on the bucklers, 
As round his corpse they fought: but he, amid a dust-tornado, 775 
Forgetful of his horsemanships, lay mightily and mighty. 

Now when the lofty-climbing Sun had touch'd his noon of heaven, 
Thenceforth from either side the darts did fly, and people perish. 
But from what time the Sun declin'd, freeing from toil the oxen ; 
Then, overriding doom's decree, Achaian might was higher. 780 



book xvi.] THE ILIAD. 295 

Out of the mell of darts they dragg'd Kebriones the hero, 

And from the Troian din; and stripp'd the armour from his shoulders; 

And at the foes, with bitter soul, again Patroclus sallied. 

Upon them thrice he rush'd, in weight a match for eager Ares, 

With dreadful yell of battle: thrice, nine heroes fell beneath him. 785 

But when the fourth time on he sped, like to a mighty Spirit, 

Then unto thee the fates unveil'd thy end of life, Patroclus ! 

For now the direful Shining one, advancing thro' the tumult 

Unseen, confronted thy career, amid the hardy struggle. 

Behind the hero stood the god, enwrapt in mist abundant, 790 

Who then with palm descending smote his back and breadth of shoulders. 

Dazzled and giddy were his eyes : the casque forsook his temples. 

The crested vizor rolling far beneath the feet of horses 

Rattled aloud: with dust and gore was the fair plume distained. 795 

(Not heretofore might dust distain that horsetail-crested helmet : 

But of a godlike man it screen'd the brows and graceful forehead, — 

Achilles' brows : but Jupiter the glory gave to Hector, 

To wear it round his proper head and nearer bring destruction.) 800 

Next, in Patroclus' hand was snapt the spear with lengthy shadow, 

Huge, weighty, stout, with iron point well-capt; and from his shoulders 

Down with its belt on earth was cast the anklereaching buckler. 

Lastly, the princely son of Jove, Apollo, loos'd his corslet. 

Stupor his heart possest: unstrung was every gallant sinew. 805 

So stood he all aghast. Behind, a Dardan chief approaching, 

Betwixt his shoulders fix'd the spear, — Euphorbus, son of Panthus, 

Who, in swift feet and horsemanship and spear, outwent his fellows : 

(There, in his rudiments of war, full twenty chiefs he slaughter'd, 

Struck from their chariots ; when he first of his car made trial :) 811 

Who first at thee, charioteer Patroclus ! cast his weapon, 

Nor did subdue thee. Back he ran, and mingled in the tumult, 

But from the wounded shoulder first the ashen weapon plucked, 

Listing not well in foemen's gripe to meet unarm'd Patroclus. 815 

But he, beneath the god's assault and by the spear o'ermaster'd, 

Unto his dear companion-troop retreated, Pate avoiding. 

But Hector, when from far he saw the mighty-soul'd Patroclus 

Retiring wounded, thro' the ranks dash'd quick to overhend him, 



296 THE ILIAD. [book xvi. 

And stabb'd him in the lowest lap, and drave, right thro', the weapon. 
So dropt he with a crash, and sore the Achaian host afflicted. 821 

As when in fight a wiry boar is master'd by a lion, 

If on the mountain's top the twain with haughty spirit wrangle 
About a petty well, where each would slake his thirst of water ; 825 
At length the panting hog is taught how terrible the lion : 
So, when Menoetius' brave son had many lives bereaved, 
In turn did Hector with the spear in close encounter slay him. 
Then, vaunting o'er the fallen foe he winged accents utter' d : 

" Patroclus ! haply 'twas thy thought our goodly town to ravage, 830 
And in thy galleys lead away to thy dear native country 

A train of Troian women, reft from home and day of freedom ; 
simpleton ! but, them to save, do Hector's nimble horses 
Spank forth in garniture of war : and with the spear am signal 
Mid the warloving Troians, myself. Lo ! thus repel I 835 

That forceful misery : but thou, meanwhile, art food of vultures. 
Ha ! wretched man ! naught Achileus, albeit brave, avail'd thee ; 
Who, when toVar thou earnest, laid such charge as this upon thee: — 
' Unto the smoothly hollow ships, Patroclus courser-guiding ! 
Hither come not to me again, until about the bosom 840 

The gory harness thou hast rent of heroslaying Hector.' 
So(deem I) thenhe spake, and troth! thy foolish heart persuaded." 

To him, with puny vigour, thou, horseman Patroclus ! speakest : 
" Now, Hector ! greatly vauntest thou : for unto thee Apollo 
And Jove, the child of Saturn, give high glory. They subdued me 845 
Full easily ; for from my breast themselves stript off my armour. 
If twenty heroes like to thee I met in equal battle, 

They all should perish on the spot, beneath my spear o'ermaster'd. 
But me hath deadly Pate o'ermatch'd, and bright Latona's offspring, 
And,amongmen, Euphorbus : thou but third to slay me earnest. 850 
This also will I say ; and thou within thy bosom cast it : — 
Eke not for thee abideth life long time : for lo ! already 

Standeth beside thee forceful Doom and Death, to overthrow thee 
By prowess of iEacides, the spotless son of Peleus." 854 

While thus he spake, the end of death his mouth and voice foreclosed. 
Out of his members flew his soul, and reach'd the house of Pluto, 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 297 

Mourning its own sad destiny, from youth and manhood parting. 
Then gallant Hector to the corpse a word did further utter : 
" Why now, Patroclus ! upon me bluff overthrow forebodest ? 
Who knoweth, whether Achileus, tho' child of brighthair'd Thetis, 860 
May earlier, perchance, of life beneath my spear be rieved ? " 

With such address, he from the gash drew forth the brazen weapon, 
Tramping upon the dead man's breast, who lay supine beneath him. 
Forthwith against Automedon a new assault design'd he, — 
Automedon, the godlike squire of courser-proud Achilles; — 865 
And much to hit him long'd • but him the nimble horses rescued, 
Immortal, which, as brilliant gifts, the gods bestow'd on Peleus. 



BOOK XVII. 



JN ok was it hid from Atreus' son, warloving Menelaiis, 
That neath the feud of Troians Patroclus fallen lieth. 
He thro' the foremost ranks advanc'd, arm'd with the flashing metal, 
And round the hero's body mov'd, as round her calf a heifer, 
New to maternal tenderness, plaintive to save her firstborn : 5 

So round Patroclus' body then mov'd auburn Menelaiis, 
And forward held his spear, and shield, which equal was on all sides, 
Full resolute to slay the man, whoso might dare to front him. 

Nor inobservant was the son of ashen-speared Panthus, — 
Euphorbus, — when Patroclus fell; so stood he, near approaching 10 
To Menelas, by Ares lov'd, and sternly thus address'd him : 

" Jove-nurtur'd Menelaus, son of Atreus ! prince of peoples ! 
Betire! withdraw thee from the dead, and leave my gory trophies. 
For none of all the allies renown' d, or Troians, before me 



298 



THE ILIAD. 



[BOOK XVII" 









Smote down Patroclus with the spear amid the hardy struggle. 
Therefore allow me noble fame to earn among the Troians, 
Lest also thee I hit, and rieve thy life as honey pleasant." 

To him with indignation huge spake auburn Menelaiis : 
"Troth! Father Jove! not seemly 'tis for man to vaunt too proudly, 
No thought so arrogant, I trow, in panther or in lion 



15 



20 



Dwelleth, or in the savage boar, 
Doth inly nurture signally 
As arrogant the children are 
Yet not the courser-taming youth, 
Long vantage of his years enjoy'd, 
Saying, of all the Danai 
Nor deem I, he, on proper feet, 
With pleasure to his consort dear, 
So will I thy pretension crush, 
But I in turn my counsel give, 
To hide thee in retreat, (and not 
Before thou some disaster meet. 



whose spirit in his bosom 

a grim delight of prowess ; 

of ashen-speared Panthus. 

their brother Hyperenor, 

when, slighting, he defied me, 25 

I was the poorest fighter. 

to his own home did hie him, 

and to his canny parents. 

in sooth ! if thou withstand me. 

— within the crowd of fighters 30 

stand forward to confront me,) 

— Too late the fool is prudent." 



He spake, but him persuaded not; who answering address'd him: 
" Jove-nurtur'd Menelas ! in sooth, now shalt thou pay the forfeit, 
For that my kinsman thou hast slain, and vaunting thou haranguest 
And in her bower newly built 
And on our parents hast entail'd 
To their affliction I in sooth 
If now I bear away thy head 
Into the hands of Panthoiis 
Nor now much longer, I opine, 
But soon the riddle must be spelt, 



. 35 
didst make his bride a widow, 
accursed wail and sorrow, 
some balm of grief might carry, 
and eke thy arms, and place them 
and venerable Phrontis. 40 

untried our struggle tarries, 
to conquer or be conquer'd." 



He spake, and thrusting struck the shield, which equal was on all sides : 
Nor might the metal force its way, but first the point was broken, 
By the bluff shield resisted. Next, Atrides Menelaiis, 45 

With pray'r to father Jupiter, rose dreadful with his weapon. 

And, as the foe retreated, he, on his broad hand reliant, 

Planted and press' d the spear, where throat is fitted in the bosom, 
And thro' the tender neck its point outright behind him issued. 
24. For the death of Hyper enor, see 14, 516. 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 299 

So with a loud crash down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 50 

His hair, that with the Graces vied, was now with gore besprinkled, 

And ample tresses, which with gold and silver were embraided. 

As when in solitary dell, where rife spring-water bubble th, 

A man may kindly rear a shoot of easy- sprouting olive, 

Dainty and all-luxuriant ; and round it breezes rustle 55 

From diverse-blowing winds ; and it with a white flower buddeth ; 

But sudden cometh wind indeed, with plenteous weight of tempest, 

And from its own pit wrencheth it, and on the earth outlayeth : 

Such then the ashen-speared son of Panthoiis, — Euphorbus, — 

Beneath Atrides Menelas was slain and stript of armour. 60 

As when, reliant in his might, a mountain-nurtur'd lion 

Out of a grazing herd may snatch a cow, whiche'er is fattest ; 

By his huge weight and stalwart teeth its neck at once is broken ; 

He rends the victim, laps the blood, and heart and bowels gorgeth ; 

And while he havoc spreadeth wide, around him dogs and herdsmen 65 

Hoot screeching fiercely from afar, incessant, nor endure they 

His close encounter; for, themselves pale terror greatly seizeth : 

So, to not one of them, the heart within his bosom dared 

The close encounter to confront of famous Menelaiis. 

Then had Atrides easily borne off the glorious armour 70 

Of Panthus' son ; but such a prize did bright Apollo grudge him, 

Who then, in semblance of a man, Mentes, Ciconian leader, 

Against him summon'd Hector's self, a match for eager Ares, 

And, earnestly accosting him, these winged accents utter'd : 

" Hector ! now vainly runnest thou, to catch Achilles' horses. 
Hard are those steeds for mortal men to tame and guide in harness, 
To all but skilful Achileus, born of a deathless mother. 

Meanwhile hath Atreus' younger son, the martial Menelaiis, 
Around Patroclus' body, slain the bravest of the Troians, 80 

Euphorbus, son of Pauthoiis ; and quell'd his daring prowess." 

This said, again the god was mix'd amid the toil of heroes. 
Then, round his soul of black, with grief was Hector grimly clouded. 
Over the battle-field he gaz'd : there instantly descried he 
One, stripping off the glorious arms, but upon earth the other 85 

80. Troian. Euphorbus was called a Dardcrn, 16, 806. 



300 THE ILIAD. [book xvn. 

Prostrate ; and from the open gash the dusky gore was streaming. 
He thro' the foremost ranks advanc'd, arm'd with the flashing metal, 
Shouting with menace terrible, and like a flame of Yulcan, 
Quenchless. To that redoubted cry the son of Atreus listen'd, 
And thus in indignation spake to his own haughty spirit : 90 

" Alas for me ! if now in fear I quit the beauteous armour, 
Abandoning Patroclus, who in my revenge is fallen ; 

Indignant may he be, whoe'er of Danai shall see me. 
But if, for shame and honour, I with Hector and the Troians 
Combat by single force, — to one an overmatch are many : 95 

And motley-helmed Hector now leads all his Troians hither. 
But, fond heart, why holdest now within me such discourses ? 
Whoso, defying Fortune's odds, with hero-chief engageth, 
Whom God doth honour ; — haply will in mighty woe be whelmed. 
So, none of Danai shall be indignant, should he see me 100 

Shrink from the might of Hector, who by aid of heaven nghteth. 
But if, — how Ajax, good at need, doth quit him in the battle, 
I knew, together haply we might hero-glee remember, 

And e'en defying Fortune's odds, might yet draw up the body 
For Peleus' son Achilles. This, of evils would be lightest." 105 

While all his bosom and his soul with such debate did struggle, 
Meanwhile the Troian ranks were come, and at their head was Hector. 
Atrides, backward moving, left the carcase ; yet receded 
But step by step : not otherwise, a noble-bearded lion, 
Whom from the stable dogs and men pursue with spears and hurly, 110 
And freeze his valiant heart; then he the yard unwilling quitteth: 
Eke from Patroclus' body so pac'd auburn Menelaus, 

But quickly fronted round, when first he reach'd his troop of comrades. 
He gaz'd on every side to see great Telamonian Ajax, 115 

And speedily descried him, near the left of all the battle, 
Cheering the comrades at his side and stirring them to combat ; 
For bright Apollo in their hearts had shed unearthly panic. 
He hied to run, and, quick arriving, instantly address'd him : 

" O Ajax! hither, friend ! — we now about Patroclus fallen 120 

Must busy us, perchance to bear his body to Achilles, 
All naked : for the arms are won by motley-helmed Hector." 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 301 

So spake he, and bestirr'd the soul of skilful-hearted Ajax. 
Along the foremost ranks he mov'd with auburn Menelaiis, 124 

Where Hector held the glorious arms ; and now Patroclus dragg'd he, 
Wishful with weapon sharp to cut his head from off the shoulders 
And toss the maimed trunk abroad unto the dogs of Troas. 
Then Ajax nearer came, his shield like to a tower bearing, 
And Hector, back withdrawing, mix'd within his crowd of comrades, 
And sprang upon his chariot, and gave the beauteous armour 130 

For carriage to the Troian town, to be his own great glory. 
But Ajax round Patroclus slain his ample buckler spreading, 
Stood forth, as round his proper brood may stand a parent lion, 
Who hath with hunter-men perchance in forest-glade encounter'd, 
Leading abroad his young; but he, in grim delight of prowess, 135 
Down draweth all his eyebrow-skin, and covereth his eyen : 
Not other, Ajax stood around the fallen chief, Patroclus ; 
And Atreus' son on other side, warloving Menelaiis, 
Stood also, heaving in his breast a growing load of sorrow. 

But Glaucus Hippolochides, the Lycian commander, 140 

On Hector turn'd a frowning glance and bitterly reproach'd him : 

" Hector ! in beauty excellent, in battle much thou wantest. 
In vain, when runaway thou art, doth noble glory hold thee. 
Bethink thee, — mayest thou, upheld now singly by the peoples 
Who have in Ilium their birth, the town and city rescue ? 145 

For not of Lycians, I trow, will any for thy city 

To combat with the Danai henceforth be keen : for thankless 

The toil is found, unceasingly to fight with foemen alway. 

How, mid the riot, shouldest thou a worser man deliver, 
heartless ! who abandonest thy friend and thy companion, 150 

Sarpedon, unto Argive men as sport and lucky booty ? 

He, while alive, much service did to thee and to the city ; 
But thou no courage hast from him, to scare the dogs and vultures. 
Wherefore, if now by my advice some Lycians shall guide them, 
Homeward to go, straightway for Troy bluff overthrow remaineth. 155 
For if within the Troians now did dwell much-daring vigour, 
Intrepid, such as filleth men, who for their native country 

Against a throng of stranger-foes have enter'd toilful contest ; 



302 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

Then quickly into Ilium off might we drag Patroclus. 

And if we to the mighty town of princely Priam carried 160 

That hero's corpse, when finally we won it from the battle ; 

Gladly would then the Argives yield Sarpedon's beauteous armour, 

Yea, and himself' to Ilium we quickly might recover. 

For of such hero squire was he, who is by far the noblest, — 

He and the squires who round him fight, — beside the Argive galleys. 165 

But thou, to look the foe in face canst not abide, in onset, 

Or stand against the buckler huge of mighty-hearted Ajax. 

Much less, his shock wilt thou endure : sith he than thee is stronger." 

To him with frowning glance replied great motley-helmed Hector : 
" Glaucus! we know thee sage: and why so arrogant thy language ? 170 
Ye Spirits ! troth ; my thought it was, that thou, of all the heroes 
Who dwell in loamy Lycia, hast primacy of wisdom. 

Now utterly disparage I thy judgment, how thou speakest, 

Who say, I dare not to abide the huge majestic Ajax. 

Not at the battle shudder I, nor at the tramp of horses : 175 

But alway than the wit of man the wit of Jove is higher ; 
Who doth the valorous affright, and victory despoileth 
Eight easily ; but otherwhile himself to battle stirreth. 

But hither, friend! beside me stand, and look on my achievement. 
For ever will I claim to be coward, as thou pronouncest, 180 

Or some of Danai will I, albeit keen his courage, 

Stop from his eagerness to fight around Patroclus fallen." 

Then Hector rais'd his voice aloft and charg'd the Troian army : 
" Dardans, who hand to hand contend, and Lycians and Troians, 
Be men, my friends ! nor negligent of furious encounter; 185 

Whilst I of spotless Achileus put on the beauteous armour, 

Which (when the hero I had slain) I took from great Patroclus." 

After such exhortation, forth went motley-helmed Hector 
From out the feud of battle. Quick he ran and overhended 
His comrades, not yet far; whom he with rapid footstep folio w'd ; 190 
Who to the city bare away Pelides' noble armour. 

There standing, he the arms exchang'd, apart from tearful battle. 
His own from off his body, these he trusted to his Troians 
164. He, i. e. Patroclus. 165. He, i. e. Achilles. 



book xvii.l THE ILIAD. 303 

To bear to sacred Ilium ; and took the immortal armour 

Of Peleus' son Achilles, which of yore the gods presented 195 
To his dear sire ; he to his son, when old he grew, bequeath'd them : 
Yet not the son, I wis, grew old, in armour of the father. 

But him when cloud-collecting Jove beheld, apart from battle 
Busking him in the heav'nly arms of Peleus' godlike offspring, 
Thereat he shook his head, and spake within his secret bosom : 200 

"Ha! wretched! eke to thee is death nowise a welcome coiner, 
Who near approacheth thee : but thou the immortal armour donnest 
Of a surpassing chief, at whom all other heroes tremble. 
Of him thou hast the comrade slain, a kindly man and stalwart, 
And from his shoulders and his head hast ta'en, with no decorum, 205 
The armour : still will I to thee vouchsafe surpassing puissance, 
In payment for this sorrow, that Andromache shall never 
From thee on thy return receive Pelides' noble armour." 

After these words, Saturnius with raven eyebrow nodded. 209 
But Hector's body suited well the arms ; and Ares dress'd him, — 
Ares, dread Enyalius, — and, thro' his limbs, within him 

Pour'd strength & spirit. Thence he hied to catch the allies far-summon'd, 
And, as with mighty shout he came, to all he wore the semblance 
Of mighty-hearted Achileus, resplendent in the armour. 

Then singly visiting he urg'd each hero to the battle, 215 

Prom Mesthles first and Phorkys and Thersilochus and Medon, 
Asteropaeus, Chromius, Hippothous, Deisenor, 

To Glaucus Hippolochides and Ennomus the augur. 

To these he exhortation made and winged accents utter'd : 

"Listen ! allies who dwell around in tribes of number countless ! 220 
I sought not wider reach of sway, nor wanted train of peoples, 
When from your cities, one by one, your bands I hither gather'd ; 
But that, to rescue from the hands of the warloving Argives 
The Troian wives and infants small, ye zealously might combat. 
Holding such purposes, by claim of gifts and food I harass 225 

The Troian people, while of you I strengthen every bosom. 
Wherefore, straightforward, every one in firm resolve be minded 
To conquer, or to perish : — such the communings of warfare. 
Now whoso Ajax driveth back and seizeth on Patroclus, 



304 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

Dragging his body to the ranks of courser-taming Troians ; 230 
Half of the spoils to him I yield, and half myself will carry, 
And such as is my honour now, such eke shall be his honour." 

He spake; and weightily did they with spears uplifted sally 
Straightforward at the Danai ; and greatly were they hopeful 
To tear the carcase from the hands of Telamonian Ajax ; 235 

O simpletons ! for over it they many lives did squander. 

To Menelaus, good at need, then Ajax spake entreaty : 

" From battle-danger, O my friend ! Jove-nurtur'd Menelaus ! 
A safe return for both of us I dare to hope no longer. 

Nay, nor so sorely tremble I about Patroclus' body, 240 

Which doubtless speedily will glut the Troian dogs and vultures, 
As for my proper head I fear, lest some disaster seize it, 

And thine : sith Hector round about wrappeth a cloud of battle, 
And at our feet the steep abyss of utter ruin yawneth. 
But come ! the chieftain-Danai call thou, if any hear thee." 245 

Then Menelaus, good at need, was to his word compliant ; 
So to the Danai abroad with piercing voice he shouted : 

"0 friends, who unto Argive folk are govemours and leaders, 
Who at the board of Atreus' sons with public wine are feasted, 
As we ourselves, and with command each speaketh to the peoples, 250 
And by the gift of Jupiter honour and glory holdeth : 

Tor me 'tis toilsome, everywhere to spy out each commander 
Of Danai : so great a strife around and thro' us blazeth. 

But, of himself, hie hither each, and be in soul indignant 
To leave Patroclus for a joy and sport to dogs of Troas." 255 

As thus he cried, Oileus' son, swift Ajax, sharply heard him, 
Who, speeding thro' the battle-feud, was first to reach his presence ; 
But next to him, Idomeneus, and his belov'd attendant 

Meriones, an equipoise to hero-slaying Ares. 

But, of the rest, what wit of man could all the names remember, 260 
How many afterwards renew'd the battle of Achaia. 
But forward rush'd the Troians in plump : and Hector led them. 

As at the mouth, where shoals henvin a Jove-descended river, 
Against the current rage and roar huge billows, and beside them 
The ridges of the circling beach with splashing surf rebellow 5 265 



book xvn.] THE ILIAD. 305 

With such alarum went, I wis, the Troians : but the Achaians 
Fenced with brazen bucklers stood, fill'd with a single spirit, 
To save Patroclus. Saturn's son around their sheeny helmets 
Pour'd mist in plenty. Troth ! of old ne'erjiated he the chieftain, 270 
Not when, beside iEacides, he liv'd, as dear attendant ; 

Nor that Patroclus be a prize, to dogs of Troian foemen, 
Endur'd he : therefore to his aid he greatly rous'd his comrades. 

Yet first the Troians drave away the curling-ey'd Achaians 
Who, smit with panic, left the dead: but the high-hearted Troians, 275 
Tho' keen for slaughter, slew not one, but dragg'd to them the carcase. 
Nor long from rescue stood aloof the Achaians, quickly rallied 
By Ajax ; who in noble form and noble deeds was signal 

Of all the Danai, except the spotless son of Peleus. 280 

Straight "thro' the foremost ranks he hied, like to a boar in prowess, — 
Such savage male, who easily, in thickets on the mountain, 

Standing at bay, hath scattered the hounds and lusty callants : — 
So, moving thro' them easily, did then the gallant Ajax, 

Son of the lordly Telamon, the bands of Troas scatter, 285 

Who round Patroclus crowded thick, with hearts and hope highlifted, 
To drag him to their proper walls and earn excelling glory. 

A gallant man, Hippothoiis, son of Pelasgic Lethus, 
In sooth, did tug him by the foot amid the hardy struggle, 
Around the ankle fastening a strap, in hope of favour 290 

From Hector and the Troians. But on himself came quickly 
Mischief, which none among them all, tho' eager, then averted. 
For, him the son of Telamon, thro' the thick tumult rushing, 

Close in the combat struck, across his brazen-cheeked vizor. 
Beneath the fury of the point the horsetail-crested helmet 295 

Yielded : for mighty was the spear, and broad the hand that urg'd it. 
Out of the open gash his brain ran thro' the vizor's hollow, 
All-gory, pouring forth his life ; and there unstrung his sinews. 
So from his hand he dropt to earth the foot of brave Patroclus 
Keleas'd; and headlong, side by side, fell prostrate to the carcase, 300 
Far from Larissa's loamy fields : nor to his loving parents 
Paid he the fitting nurture-price ; but soon his life was ended, 
Too early ravish'd by the spear of mighty-hearted Ajax. 

20 



306 THE ILIAD. [book xvit. 

Forthwith at Ajax Hector aim'd, with shining spear to hit him ; 
But Ajax saw it opposite, and stoop'd to shun its fury, 305 

By scanty space avoiding it : yet Schedius it wounded, 

Son of high-hearted Iphitus, of Phocians the bravest, 

Who dwelt in famous Panopeus and rul'd o'er many heroes : 
Him by the collarbone it hit, and low beneath the shoulder 

Thro' came the brazen javelin, from front to back traversing. 310 

So with a loud crash down he dropt, and o'er him clang'd his armour. 
Then Ajax thrust at Phaenops' son, the skilful-hearted Phorkys, 
Striding around Hippothoiis ; and rent his corslet's hollow. 

The brazen weapon pierc'd his lap and drain'd his inmost vitals : 
So in the dust he fell, — the earth with gripe convulsive clutching. 315 
With gallant Hector, yielded then their foremost ranks : the Argives 
With mighty whoops drew up the dead, — Hippothoiis and Phorkys, — 
And from their shoulders tranquilly stript off the curious armour. 

Then surely would the Troians beneath the Achaian heroes 
Again have enter'd Ilium, in martial strength defeated, 320 

And, overriding Jove's decree, by their own hardy spirit 
Had then the Argives glory won; but that the prince Apollo, 
In figure like to Periphas, spake urgent to iEneias. 

(This man was son of Epytas, a friendly-minded herald, 

Friendly and sage, who aged grew beside an aged father.) 325 

Hid in such guise, the son of Jove, Apollo, now address'd him : 

" Son of Anchises, that ye, despite the will of heaven, 
Would rescue lofty Ilium ! So have I seen, that others, — 

And eke with sorely scanty folk, — defy the doom of heaven, 
Trusting upon their own strong hand, and hardihood of spirit. 330 
Rather to you than Danai doth Jove desire successes : 

But ye yourselves are dastardly, nor forward in the combat." 

So spake he •• but iEneias knew Apollo the fardarting, 
Seeing him face to face ; and loud he unto Hector shouted : 

" Hector ! and ye who leaders are, or of allies, or Troians ! 335 

Dishonour now is this, — beneath the Achaians dear to Ares 
Again to enter Ilium, in martial strength defeated. 

But,sith some heav'nly god, but now beside me standing, sayetb, 
The Troian battle holpen is by Jove, supreme deviser ; 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 307 

Go we against the Danai, forward ! nor let them tranquil 340 

Unto their galleys bear away the corpse of dead Patroclus." 

He spake, and from the van of men outleaping, foremost bare him. 
Then did they gather to a ball, and stood against the Argives. 
Thereat iEneias with the spear struck down Arisbas' offspring, 
Leiocritus, the comrade brave of warlike Lycomedes. 345 

But Lycomedes saw him fall, and pitied his companion. 

Near him he took his stand, and pois'd, and hurl'd his shining weapon, 
And hit the son of Hippasus, a shepherd of the people, 

Beneath the liver, near the heart, and straight unstrung his sinews. 
His name was Apisaon : he, after Asteropaeus, 350 

In loamy-soil'd Paeonia held primacy of valour. 

Warlike Asteropaeus saw, and pitied him, in falling ; 

And he too on the Danai sallied, for combat eager: 

But nowhere could he reach the foe, who, fenc'd with spears uplifted 
And bucklers fitted as a wall, around Patroclus rallied. 355 

For Ajax visited the ranks, and urgently exhorted, 

That none, withdrawing from the fight, behind the dead retire him, 
Nor yet preeminent desire to fight before the Achaians, 

But, round the dead, should circle them, and from short distance combat. 
So huge majestic Ajax bade. Meanwhile the earth was wetted 

With crimson torrents. Slaughter'd fell corpses alike of Troians 361 
And of allies magnanimous, in thick confusion huddled, 

And eke of Danai : for these might not be bloodless wholly : 

Yet slain were fewer far of them : for alway they remember'd, 
Each to his fellow aid to bear amid the toilsome danger. 365 

Thus battled they, like blazing fire : nor sure was it to any, 
That Sun or Moon was safe ; for mist of welkin all enshrouded, 
Where round Actorides' dead son the bravest stood in combat. 
But all the other Troians and dapper-greav'd Achaians 370 

Warr'd tranquil under sky serene ; the Sun's keen rays lay open. 
No cloud on heaven's eye appear'd, nor resting o'er the mountains. 
These, respite had from battle's force ; and in clear light, avoided, 
Standing afar, the direful bolts which each did aim at other. 

367. WelTcin, i. e. clouds. Germ. Wolken. The word is used by modern 
poets vaguely for the Sky, which also once meant Cloud. 



308 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

But those by darkness and by war at once disaster suffer'd, 375 

And chief the chieftains, wasted sore by ruthless dint of battle. 
Two famous men, Antilochus and Thrasymedes, only 

As yet the tiding had not heard, that slain is good Patroclus: 
But still deem'd they, that he alive did press the Troian riot. 380 

And they, foreboding mournful doom and flight of their companions, 
Apart their battle held : for so gave Nestor strait commandment, 
Urging to lead the fight aloof far from the dusky galleys. — 

But, all the day, the others bare great strife of noisome quarrel. 384 
From toil and sweat incessantly knees, shanks, and feet beneath them, 
And hands and eyes, bespatter'd were ; while still they press'd the battle, 
Where lay their kindly champion, the squire of swift Achilles. 

As when a man, for currying, may give unto the people, 
Bedrench'd with fat, the ample hide, which once a huge bull cover'd ; 
They, from his hands receiving it, do stand apart and tug it 391 

In circle ; and sith many tug, the moisture quickly parteth, 

The oil deep entereth ; and it, throughout, is stretch'dand curried : 
So they in narrow space did tug the carcase, hither, thither, 
Both fill'd with hope; — the Troians, to Ilium to drag it ; — 395 

The Achaians, to the hollow ships. Around him rose a turmoil 
All savage. Not Athene's self, nor Ares people-stirrer 
Would lightly that encounter blame, aitho' in testy humour. 
Such evil toil of men and steeds did Jove around Patroclus 400 
Upon that day prolong. Nor yet the death of his Patroclus 
Divine Achilles knew at all ; for all that stubborn battle 

Par from the Argive galleys rag'd, beneath the Troian city. 
Therefore, not dead, but strong in life, (within his soul he trusted,) 
Patroclus from the gates of Troy should back return in safety. 405 
Sith not at all did Achileus hope, that without his presence, 

His friend high Ilium might storm ; nor even with his succour. 
Por from his mother often this he heard, apart inquiring ; 
Who clearly all the purposes of mighty Jove reported. 

His mother verily not then reveal'd the dire disaster, 410 

Accomplish'd, unreversible, — that his belov'd is perish'd. 

But they around the hero's corpse their pointed weapons holding, 
Incessant grappled in the fight, and man by man was slaughter'd. 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 309 

And thus did one to other say of brazen-clad Achaians : 

" Inglorious to us it were, hence to return defeated 41b 

Unto the galleys : rather may the murky earth's abysses 
Yawn on us all ! the which for us were instantly far better, 
Than to give up our hero's corpse to courser-taming Troians 
Unto their own abodes to drag and earn excelling glory." 

But thus did one to other talk of mighty-hearted Troians ; 420 
" O friend, if even doom demand, that we beside this hero 
Be slaughter'd one and all, let none withhold him from the battle." — 

They by such mutual address, each rous'd his fellow's spirit. 
Still went the stubborn tustle on ; its iron-hearted riot 
Thro' aether's vasty emptiness to brazen heaven sounded. 425 
The coursers of iEacides, meanwhile, apart from battle, 

Wept, soon as e'er that tiding bad into their breast had enter'd, 
How that their charioteer was slain by hero-crushing Hector. 
And verily Automedon, Diores' valiant offspring, 

Much by keen lashes of the scourge to move the steeds attempted, 430 
Much by address of honey 'd words, and much by threats and curses. 
But they the car would neither draw returning to the galleys 
Back unto Helle's brackish flood, nor to the Achaian battle. 
But as upon a monument, where sleepeth man or woman 

Under their barrow, motionless a lofty pillar standeth ; 435 

So, with the car all-gorgeous, stood motionless the coursers, 

Drooping toward the ground their heads; and down their plaintive eyelids 
Did warm tears trickle to the ground, their charioteer bewailing. 
Defiled were their dainty manes, over the yoke-strap dropping. 440 
Their tears beholding, Saturn's child the deathless coursers pitied ; 
Thereafter shook his head, and spake within his secret bosom : 

" Ha ! why on Peleus, mortal prince, bestow'd we you ? unhappy ! 
You, — who are born celestial, from Eld and Death exempted. 

Was it, that ye, with wretched men, should learn the taste of sorrow? 445 
Eor, of all things that move on earth and breathe the air of heaven, 
Methinketh, none are wretcheder than man's disastrous offspring. 
Yet never, verily, on you and on your car resplendent 

Shall Hector son of Priam mount : for not will I endure it. 
Enough, that he the armour hath, and fruitlessly doth vaunt it. 450 



310 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

But I will vigour breathe to you within your knees and bosom, 
That ye may eke Automedon out of the battle rescue 

Unto the smoothly hollow ships. For, glory still to Hector 
Grant I, to slay the foe, until he reach the welldeck'd galleys, 

When in the west the Sun shall sink and yield to sacred darkness." 455 

Thus speaking, in the heav'nly steeds a graceful vigour breath'd he. 
Then they, from off their manes, to earth shook down the dust, and quickly 
Bare the swift chariot among Achaians and Troians. 

And from the seat Automedon, tho' grieving for his comrade, 
Cheering the coursers, chas'd the foe, as after geese a vulture. 460 
Tor easy was escape to him from out the Troian riot, 

And easy, chasing to return and sally in the turmoil. 

Yet slaughter never might he make of whom he overhended ; 
Nor, in a sacred chariot sitting alone, avail'd he 

At once to combat with the spear and hold the nimble coursers. 465 
At length Alkimedon, his friend and comrade, right beknew it ; — 
A man, whose sire Laerkes was, but Haemon was his grandsire. 
So to Automedon he spake, behind the car approaching : 

"Who of the gods, Automedon ! out of thy heart hath taken 
Sound wit, and this ungainful thought within thy bosom planted, 470 
That thou against the Troians in foremost line dost combat, 
Alone ? Thy partner of the fight is slain : and Hector joyeth, 
The armour of iEacides upon his shoulders bearing." 

But him in turn Diores' son, Automedon, accosted : 
" Alkimedon, who unto thee is equal of Achaians, 475 

Except Patroclus, peer to gods in skilfulness of prudence, 
While yet he liv'd ; but him in turn have death and doom o'ertaken, — 
To curb the spirit and career of these immortal horses ? 

But thou within thy hands receive the scourge and glossy bridles, 
Then from the chariot will I dismount, to meet the foeman." 480 

Hereat, Alkimedon behind the coursers swift for succour 

Mounted, and quickly in his hands caught up the scourge and bridles. 
In turn Automedon leapt off : and gallant Hector saw it. 

Then to iEneias, standing near, an utterance address'd he : 

" Anchises* son! high Counsellor of brazen-coated Troians ! 485 

Lo ! with their foolish charioteers the coursers of Achilles 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 311 

Amid the battle show themselves. These may I hope to capture, 
If thou with me like-minded art : sith, hardly will they venture, 
Against the sally of us both to try the shock of Ares." 490 

He spake, nor uncompliant found Anchises' bonny offspring. 
Forward they went, — their shoulders screen'd by bullhide dry and sturdy, 
Strengthen'd with brass. But Chromius and eke divine Aretus 
Went in their company; and troth! their heart within was hopeful 495 
To slay the heroes both, and catch the lofty-crested horses ; 

simpletons ! sith for themselves no bloodless journey waited, 
Back from Automedon : but he, to Jove the Father praying, 
Was fill'd in all his gloomy soul with hardihood and spirit. 
Forthwith unto Alkimedon, his trusty comrade, spake he : 500 

" Hearken, Alkimedon I From me hold not afar the coursers, 
But breathing even on my back : for verily I deem not 
That Hector, Priam's son, will stay the keenness of his fury, 
Till, either, both of us be slain, and loftily he mount him 
Behind the glossy-coated steeds of Achileus, dismaying 505 

The Argive ranks ; or, e'en himself among the first be hended." 

Thus saying, he, to Menelas and either Ajax, shouted : 
" Ajaces, who the Argives lead ; ye twain, and Menelaiis ! 
The carcase, and the foe's repulse, to able chiefs entrust ye; 510 

And from us two, — men yet alive, — ward off the ruthless moment. 
For here with fearful weight press on, amid the tearful battle, 
Both Hector and iEneias, — men, of Troians the bravest. 
But in the lap of destiny, I trow, our lot abideth : 

1 too my dart shall fling; and Jove will care to guide the issue." 515 

He spake, and poising, forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
And struck upon Aretus' shield, which equal was on all sides. 
Nor might the hide resist it, but thro' all the folds it hurried, 
And underneath the girdle's breadth deep in the vitals pierc'd him. 
And as, behind an ox's horns, who from the pastures cometh, 520 
A churl with newly-whetted axe may chop, if young and sturdy, 
And cleave the gristle through: the ox, then, forward leaping, droppeth: 
So, with a forward leap, fell he, supine ; for in his entrails 
Quiver'd the deep-implanted spear, and there unstrung his sinews. 

Then Hector at Automedon with shining weapon darted. 525 



312 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

He, seeing it, by scanty space the flying point avoided, 

Stooping him forward : far away the lengthy spear behind him 

In earth alighted ; where its force made the shaft's end to quiver, 

Until rude-hurtling Ares gave remission of his fury. 

Then in close combat of the sword had each the other wounded, 530 

Had not the two Ajaces come, at summons of their comrade 

Eager ; and pressing thro' the crowd, soon did they part the combat. 

For, shrinking from the gather'd force of chiefs, iEneias, Hector 

And godlike Chromius, withdrew, and left Aretus fallen, 535 

Heart-pierced. But Automedon, a peer to eager Ares, 

The armour tranquilly despoil'd, and spake a word of boasting : 

"A little solace find I now for slaughter of Patroclus 

To ease this loaded heart, — that I a meaner life have taken." 

Thus speaking, on the chariot he plac'd the gory trophies, 540 
And mounted on the seat himself, with hands, and feet beneath him, 
All-bloody, as may lion be, who hath an ox devoured. 

Around Patroclus' corpse again was held the hardy struggle, 
Noisome and tearful ; sith herself Athene rous'd the quarrel, 
From heav'n descending, forward sent by Jupiter widesighted, 545 
To wake the Danai to war : for now his mind was turned. 

As when to mortals Jupiter may stretch a purple rainbow 

From heaven, — whether sign of war, or of untemper'd winter, 
Which all the labours of the field doth stop, and and vexeth cattle: 550 
So she, in circling purple cloud her heav'nly form enwrapping, 
Amid the Achaian people pass'd and one by one arous'd them. 
But first approaching Atreus' son, the valiant Menelaiis, 
Whom at short distance she beheld; the goddess, like to Phoenix 
In shape and voice unwearied, did earnestly address him : 555 

" To thee, Menelaiis, this will contumely and scandal 
Become, if nimble dogs devour beneath the Troian rampart 
Him, who to lordly Achileus was comrade best beloved. 

But hold to battle sturdily, and rouse the other people." 

But Menelaiis, good at need, accosted her responsive : 560 

" Aged and patriarchal friend ! Phoenix ! if now Athene 
Would ward the flying darts from me, and give me mighty vigour, 

546. The sentiment does not agree with what follows, 594, 627, &c. 



book xvii.l THE ILIAD. 313 

Gladly would I with hand and foot bring rescue to Patroclus, 
Whose death untimely deep hath sunk into my secret bosom. 
But grim-devouring force of fire hath Hector, nor relenteth 565 
His brazen ravage ; sith on him Jove still bestoweth glory." 

So spake he, and rejoic'd in heart Athene, grey-ey'd goddess, 
That unto her, of all the gods, he prayer first had offer'd : 
So she surpassing vigour breath'd into his knees and shoulders. 
Such hardihood as hath a fly, which still to bite persisteth, 570 

Tho' from the skin full oft repell'd ; (but blood of man it loveth ;) — 
Such hardihood in him she pour'd thro' all his gloomy spirit, 
And on Patroclus hasting, he with shining weapon darted. 

Among the Troians Podes was, a man both good and wealthy, 575 
Offspring of prince Eetion, whom Hector of the people 

Mosthonour'd; for to him he was a comrade dear and messmate. 
Him, seeking to escape by flight, did auburn Menelaiis 
Strike in the girdle: thro' and thro' the brazen weapon hurried: 
So with a crash he fell. Thereat Atrides Menelaiis 580 

Drew from the Troians the corpse unto his troop of comrades. 

But, standing close to Hector's side, Apollo like to Phaenops, 
Offspring of Asius, — a man, by princely-hearted Hector, 

Of strangers, chiefly lov'd, who held his dwelling at Abydus; 
In such resemblance, spake to him Apollo Par-averter : 585 

" Who other of Achaians now will ever dread thee, Hector ? 
This Menelaiis, who of yore was but a tender spearman, 

Prom his encounter shrinkest thou. Now by his single prowess, 
He in the foremost ranks hath slain thy trusty comrade Podes, 
Brave offspring of Eetion, and carried off his body." 590 

So spake he, but a gloomy cloud of grief enwrapt the hero, 
And thro' the foremost ranks he rush'd, arm'd with the flashing metal. 

Thereon the son of Saturn took his many-fringed segis 
All-sparkling, and in misty cloud hid Ida, and with lightning 
Sent forth terrific thunder-claps, and shook the mighty mountain, 
And puissance to the Troians gave, but sore affray'd the Achaians. 596 

Boeotian Peneleos did first to flight betake him : 

Por while he forward alway mov'd, a spear had struck his shoulder 
With grazing wound: — Polydamas had from short distance huii'd it." 



314 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

Next, Hector wounded on the wrist, and quell'd the battle- vigour 601 

Of Leitus, whose father was Alectryon highhearted. 

Gazing around, he skulk'd to flee ; for that no longer hop'd he 

To grasp a javelin in hand against the Troian riot. 

While Hector dash'd at Leitus, — Idomeneus, assailing, 605 

Goaded with pointed javelin the bosom of his corslet : 

But in the shaft the long spear snapt : thereat the Troians shouted ; 

And while the son of Deucalus high on his car was standing, 

At him did Hector fling the dart in turn, and barely miss'd him. 

It lighted upon Coeranus, who, charioteer-attendant 610 

Of Merion, had follow'd him from nobly-builded Lyctus. 

His leader, when he quitted first the easy-steering galleys, 

On foot proceeding, to the foe had mighty vantage granted ; 

But quickly Coeranus drove up the nimble-footed horses, 

And came, unto his lord a light, the ruthless moment warding, 615 

But his own life the forfeit paid to hero-slaying Hector. 

Him struck the javelin betwixt the ear and jaw : it shatter' d 

His furthest teeth, and thro 5 mid tongue drave on in forceful passage. 

So from the chariot he dropt, and shed on earth the bridles. 

But in his own good hands full soon Meriones regain'd them, 620 

Low stooping to the ground ; and thus Idomeneus accosted : 

"Ply now the scourge, till that thou reach the swiftcareering galleys; 
For, well thou knowest, victory no longer waits on Argos." 

Upon the word, his captain lash'd the glossy-coated horses 
Back to the hollow ships : for, troth! dread on his soul had fallen. 625 
Nor hidden was from Menelas and mighty-hearted Ajax, 
That on the Troians Jove bestowed conquest's recruited prowess. 
Great Telamonian Ajax then began discourse before them : 

"Ye Spirits ! open is the truth : a simpleton may see it, 
And know, the Troians holpen are by Jove himself the Father. 630 
For from the foeman every dart doth hit, whoever aimeth, 
Good or bad fighter : any gait doth Jupiter address them : 
But darts from our battalions fall vain unto earth and fruitless. 
But come, and ponder we ourselves, what counsel may be wisest, — 
Both to the galleys how to draw the corpse; and how, in safety 635 
Ourselves returning, joy to give unto our loving comrades, 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 315 

Who, hither looking, wounded are with grief; nor deem that longer 
The might and hands untractable of hero-slaying Hector 
Ma}'' be withholden, but will rush and gain the dusky galleys. 
Now, might we some bold comrade find, who speedily would carry 640 
True message unto Peleus' son ! sith he as yet (I reckon) 
Hath not the mournful tiding heard, that his dear friend is perish'd. 
Yet nowhere may I such a one descry among the Achaians, 
For in the welkin are enwrapt themselves alike and horses. 
Jove, Father ! from the welkin-mist Achaia's sons deliver! 645 

Make open sky, and cheery sight bestow upon our ej en : 
And sith thy pleasure is to slay, slay us in light of heaven." 

So spake he; and the Father griev'd to view him tear-beflooded. 
Forthwith the welkin he dispers'd and chas'd the mist of darkness, 
And on them cheery shone the Sun, unveiling all the battle. 650 

To Menelaiis, good at need, then Ajax spake entreaty : 

" Jove-nurtur'd Menelas ! look out, if, yet alive, thou haply 
Antilochus discover, son of mighty-hearted Nestor. 

Urge him in speed to wend his way and bear the mournful errand 
To skilful-hearted Achileus, that his belov'd is perish'd." 655 

Nor Menelaiis, good at need, his bidding heard reluctant. 
He hied upon his path, as hies from the midyard a lion, 
To pick the fattest of the kine by dogs and men forbidden, 
Who, all night watching, weary him, tho' ravenous for booty. 660 
Vain are his sallies : darts thick flung from sturdy hands repel him, 
And burning brands, which harry him, howe'er his greed be whetted ; 
And in the morning, sorely griev'd and empty, off he passeth : 
So Menelaiis, good at need, departed sore unwilling 665 

From dead Patroclus. Dire his dread, lest in the noisome panic 
The Achaians leave him on the field, a booty to the foeman. 
And many a charge on Merion and on the Ajaces laid he : 

" Ajaces ! ye, and Merion, who leaders are to Argos ! 

Let all remember now how kind and gentle was Patroclus, 670 

Unhappy hero ! Well he knew, gracious to be to all men, 
While yet alive : but now, alas ! do Death and Fate o'erhend him." 

So auburn Menelaiis spake, and with the word departed, 

Gazing around on all sides, like an eagle, who, of all things 



316 THE ILIAD. [book xvii. 

That under heaven fly, they say, to scan the earth is keenest ; 675 
Whose eye, when loftiest he hangs, not the swift hare escapeth, 
Lurking amid a leafclad bush ; but straight at it he souseth, 
Unerring, and with crooked gripe doth quickly rieve its spirit. 
So then, Jove-nurtur'd Menelas ! of thee the glancing eyen 
On every side did wander, mid the troops of many comrades; 680 
If haply might he yet alive espy the son of Nestor. 

Him speedily descried he, near the left of all the battle, 
Cheering the comrades at his side and stirring them to combat. 
Then standing near before his face, spake auburn Menelaiis : 

"Hither, Antilochus ! I pray, — Jove-nurtur'd! ah, I carry 685 
To thee a mournful tiding, which — I would had no fulfilment ! 
Yet troth ! I fancy thou thyself on-looking dost already 
Know, that the god on Danai anew disaster rolleth, 

And Troians hold the puissance : slain Achaia's bravest lieth, — 
Patroclus ; and to Danai bequeath'd is mighty sorrow. 690 

But, speeding to the Achaian ships, say shortly to Achilles, 
If, sallying, he haply save the corpse unto his galley, 

All-naked ; for the arms are won by motley-helmed Hector." 

So spake he ; but Antilochus the tiding heard and shudder'd. 
Awhile dumb consternation stopt his words, and drain'd the juices 
Of his young throat: with bitter tears brimful were both his eyen. 696 
Nor, even so, neglected he the charge of Menelaiis, 

But hied to run, and gave his arms unto a blameless comrade, 
Laodocus, who alway wheel'd his single-hoofed horses 

Near to his side: but him in tears his feet bare out of battle, 700 
This evil tiding to announce to Peleus' son Achilles. 

Nor was thy spirit willing then, Jove-nurtur'd Menelaiis ! 
Thy succour to the fainting bands to give, from whom departed 
Antilochus, a mighty loss on Pylians entailing. 

To them, for succour, left he none but godlike Thrasymedes, 705 

And to Patroclus, hero -chief, himself again betoook him, 

Where, speeding to the Aj aces' side, he instantly address'd them : 

" Him have I forward sent, to reach the swft-careering galleys, 
And to Achilles fleet of foot reveal it. Yet, I reckon, 

Sally he will not yet, ho we'er enrag'd with godlike Hector : 710 



book xvii.] THE ILIAD. 317 

For nowise may he, bare of arms, do battle with the Troians. 
We for ourselves must ponder well, what counsel may be wisest ; 
Both, to the galleys how to draw the corpse, — and how in safety 
Ourselves to baffle Death and Doom, the din of Troy escaping." 

To him responsive spake thereon great Telamonian Ajax : 715 

" All this discreetly spoken is, high-honour'd Menelaiis ! 
But quickly, thou and Merion, beneath our hero stooping, 
Lift up and from the broil bear off his corpse ; and we thereafter 
Will, twain against the Troians and godlike Hector, combat, — 
We, of a single name, who bear a common heart, and, standing 720 
Buckler by buckler heretofore, endure the brunt of Ares." 

So spake he : they obedient, in arms the dead man clasping 
Heav'd him aloft full mightily. The Troian folk behind them 
Yell'd fiercely, when they saw the dead uplifted by the Achaians. 
Then on they dash'd ahead; as hounds, which on a boar that's wounded 
Sally with eagerness awhile, in front of youthful hunters ; 726 

But when, reliant on his might, he turns to bay and standeth, 
Sudden arrested, off they slink, in diverse path retreating : 
So too the Troians, awhile in troops did alway follow, 730 

With swords and with twohanded pikes against the foeman stabbing ; 
But often as the Ajaces twain stood rallying across them, 

So often chang'd their skin its hue, and shiver'd; nor did any 
Dare further to rush on, and try new quarrel for the carcase. 

So carried then the eager pair the corpse from out the battle 735 
Unto the smoothly hollow ships. Behind them, savage contest 
Mam'd ever broader ; like to fire, which, in a peopled city 
Sudden arising, flareth high. In its vast blaze the houses 

Lessen and disappear ; and it, the force of wind enrageth : 
So upon them, as on they march'd, a roaring blaze of riot 740 

Rush'd, alway swallowing their rear, from steeds and spearmen heroes. 
But they, as when a team of mules, with stalwart effort plying, 
Along a craggy-clifted path may drag, adown a mountain, 

Whether a beam or mighty mast for galley-use ; and toiling 
Too much, their heart is worn away at once by sweat and labour : 745 
So, earnest, bare the twain away the carcase : but behind them 
The two Ajaces check'd the rush, as may a mountain-buttress 



318 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

The water check, if, wooded well, across the plain it jutteth, 

And bridleth merciless outgush even of haughty rivers, 

Balking their current of its will, and on the plain assigning 750 

Fit channel; nor may all their force and all their flood o'erthrow it : 

So alway did the Ajaces twain hold off the Troian onset 

Behind them. These did yet press on ; and two among them chiefly, 

iEneias, Aphrodite's child, and motley-helmed Hector. 

Meanwhile the Achaians, as in plump a cloud of daws or starlings 755 

With ghastly skirling shoot aloft, when they espy before them 

The hawk, who with the little birds blood-controversy holdeth : 

So then the Achaian youth, pursued by Hector and iEneias, 

With ghastly skirling troop'd away, of hero-glee forgetful. 

And many beauteous arms were lost within the moat or round it, 760 

While as the Danai withdrew : yet was no pause of battle. 



BOOK XVIII. 



bo then in guise of blazing fire the combatants were fighting. 
Nestor's swift-footed son meanwhile bare message to Achilles, 
And found him forward, out beyond his lofty-crested galleys, 
Foreboding in his heart the thing, which verily was complish'd : 
So he with indignation spake to his own haughty spirit : 5 

"Alas! and wherefore doth the rout of streaming-hair'd Achaians 
Flounder anew across the plain, toward the galleys driven? 
Mayhap the immortals to my heart disastrous evil complish, 
As once my mother spake of yore, and spelt the doom of heaven, 
How that, while I in life abide, beneath the hands of Troians 10 
The noblest of the Myrmidons shall leave this sunny splendour. 



BOOK XVIII.] 



THE ILIAD. 



319 



Surely, alas ! my cruel friend, Menoetius' brave offspring, 

Is perish'd. Troth ! my charge it was, the foeman's fire to parry, 
Then to the galleys back to come, nor stoutly fight with Hector." 

While all his bosom and his soul with such debate did struggle, 15 
Meanwhile, with burning tears bestream'd, the son of lordly Nestor 
Arriving, stood before his face, and spake a bitter message : 

" Woe on my errand ! thou, oh son of skilful-hearted Peleus, 
Must hear a mournful tiding, which — I would had no fulfilment ! 
Fallen Patroclus lies : around, his naked corpse to rescue 20 

We combat ; but his arms are won by motley-helmed Hector." 

Upon such words, a gloomy cloud of woe Achilles shrouded. 
Then scooping in his joined hands the copious dust of ashes, 
Down on his head he poured them, and marr'd. his graceful visage, 
And round his nectar-breathing robe the murky soot was spatter'd. 25 
Then lay he huge, of huge aspect, amid the dust extended, 
And, with his own hands rending it, his princely hair disfigur'd. 
Eke the domestic women, whom Achilles and Patroclus 
Led off as booty of the spear, scream'd loudly, smit with anguish, 

And hurried from the tent, around Achilles skilful-hearted, 30 

And beat the bosom ceaselessly, till all would swoon exhausted. 
On other side Antilochus with stealthy tear was mourning, 

Holding Achilles' hand ; and fear his noble heart distracted, 



Lest, impotent of grief, his throat 
His groans resounded direfully, 
Who sat within the briny depths 



he sever with the iron. 

and reach'd his queenly mother, 35 

beside her aged father. 



Thereat she cried aloud with grief, and, thronging quick around her, 



Came all the goddess-Nereids 
Among them was Kymodoke 
Nesaea, large-ey'd. Halia, 
Maera and Jaera, Melite, 
Doto and Proto, Panope, 
Dexamene, Amphlnome, 
Callianeira with them was, 
Nemertes and Apseudes, with 
Thoe and Clymene were there, 
And Amatheia bright of locks 



from ocean's deep recesses, 
and Glauke and Thaleia, 
Kymothoe and Speio, 
Actaea, Limnoreia, 
Amphithoe, Agaue, 
Dynamene, Pherousa. 
with them Callianassa, 
Janeira and Janassa ; 
Doris and Oreithuia, 
and famous Galateia ; 



40 



45 



320 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

And other Nereids, who dwell in ocean's deep recesses. 

With these the brilliant grot was fill'd, and all did beat the bosom 50 

Ceaseless : but Thetis spake to them, and led the dirge of sorrow : 

" Listen, ye sister Nereids ! so, when ye all have heard me, 

Full truly may ye know, what griefs within my heart I carry. 
Ah woe upon my bridal bed ! woe on my famous childbirth ! 

Who to a mortal father gave a spotless son and stalwart, 55 

A chief of warriours : and he grew tall like to a sapling. 

And him, as in the orchard's lap a plant, I fondly nurtur'd, 
And sent him forth to Ilium upon his crested galleys, 

Against the Troians to fight ; yet in the halls of Peleus 

Ne'er shall my child returning meet the welcome of his mother. 60 

And while he liveth still for me and sees the light of heaven, 
Anguish he suffereth ; nor I approaching may relieve him. 

Yet go will I, my offspring dear to look upon, — and hearken, 
What sorrow hath his bosom reach'd, while he from war refraineth.' 

She with such utterance forsook the grotto ; they together 65 

In tears attended : round their forms was cleft the watery billow. 
But when to loamy Troas' beach they came, in train they mounted, 
Where thick the ships of Myrmidons were drawn round swift Achilles. 
Then by his side, while deep he moan'd, appear' d his queenly mother, 
Who on her son's head cast her hand, and with a wail sharp -piercing, 
Token of heart compassionate, did winged accents utter : [eth ? 

"My child, why weepestthou? and whatthe grief, thy heart that wound- 
Lock not thy breast, but speak it out. Prom Jupiter is complish'd 
All, whatsoe'er thou diddest ask afore with hands uplifted. 75 

For he to galley-poop hath hemm'd the children of Achaia, 
Where they, abandon'd of thy aid, unseemly deeds encounter." 

To her Achilles, fleet of foot, with heavy moan responded : 
" In sooth, my mother ! complish'd hath the Olympian my curses. 
Yet bringeth it no pleasure, sith my comrade dear is perish'd, — 80 
Patroclus, — whom of all my friends above the rest I honour'd, 
As my own peer. Him have I lost: and Hector holds as booty 
My splendid armour stript from him, a spectacle majestic, 
Eight wondrous ; which, as brilliant gifts, the gods bestow 'd on Peleus, 
Upon that day, when thee they gave in bride-bed to a mortal. 85 



book xviii.] THE ILIAD. 321 

Oh hadst thou liefer neath the waves with other deathless seanymphs 
There alway dwelt, and mortal wife had been to Peleus wedded ! 
But now, that eke thyself may know the heart's uncounted sorrow, 
Thy child will shortly fall in death, nor shall receive thy welcome 
Returning to his father's halls ; for neither doth my spirit 90 

Bid me to live, or among men to dwell, unless-that Hector, 
Smitten beneath my javelin, shall first of life be rieved, — 

A forfeit for Patroclus dead unto Patroclus' father." 

But him, responsive, Thetis then with dropping tear accosted : 
"Ah ! speedy-fated wilt thou be, dear child! as now thou talkest; 95 
Sith eke for thee an instant doom is, after Hector, ready." 

To her Achilles, fleet of foot, responded, sore disdainful : 
" O might I instant die, sith as to save my friend from slaughter 
Was not to me assign'd : but he far from his native country 
Perish'd ; and direly needed me, avenger of his troubles. 100 

But now, sith never wend I home to my dear native country, 
Nor brought a ray of light to him, nor to my other comrades, 
By godlike Hector slain in heaps ; but here beside my galleys 
I sit, a useless load on earth ; * whose prowess none may equal 105 
Of all the A.chaians brazen-clad ; (in council some surpass me ;)— 
O might from mortals and from gods Quarrel for ever perish, 
And Eancour, which to rage doth goad even the rich in wisdom, 
And eke, far sweeter than the comb with honey dripping, swelleth 110 
Fuming within the breast ; as me did Agamemnon madden. 
But leave we these things, past and gone, albeit keen our sorrow, 
And the fond fancies of our heart by stern constraint subdue we. 
Now must I sally, to o'ertake my dearest friend's destroyer, 

Hector; but then shall I to Doom submit me, whensoever 115 

Such is the will of Jupiter and other gods immortal. 

For not the might of Heracles his fatal day avoided, 
Who dearest was to Jupiter the princely child of Saturn ; 

But him too Destiny subdued and Juno's noisome rancour. 

In guise no other, (if on me like Destiny o'erhangeth,) 120 

Pall shall I also. Now must I earn me some noble glory. 
So some of Troian dames thro' me, and of deep-bosom'd Dardans, 
May wipe from tender cheeks the tear and utter moan incessant, 

21 



322 



THE ILIAD. 



[book xviit. 



And learn that I did heretofore withhold me long from battle. 125 
Do thou, tho' loving, stay me not : nor mayest thou persuade me." 
Thereat, to him responsive, spake the silver-footed goddess : 



nor aught amiss I find it, 

to save thy fainting comrades ; 

all brass-belaid and sparkling, 130 

for motley-helmed Hector 

plumeth himself; nor deem I 

on him o'erhangeth slaughter. 

the broil of Ares enter, 

for at the rise of morrow 135 

will beauteous armour bring thee." 



" All this is truly right, my child ! 

Prom steep disaster's overthrow 

But now thy armour beauteous, 

Among the Troians is held : 

Across his shoulders bearing it 

Long shall he vaunt it ; sith also 

But thou, refrain thyself, nor yet 

Ere me returning thou behold : 
Hither from princely Vulcan I 

This saying, from her bonny child she turn'd herself departing, 

And to her sisters of the sea betaking her, address'd them : 

"Do ye, my sisters ! enter now the ocean's ample bosom, 140 

The aged lord of waves to see and mansions of our father. 

To him rehearse ye every thing ; but I on long Olympus 
To Vulcan, fam'd artificer, betake me ; if that haply 

It list him, to my son to give arms noble and resplendent." 

She spake, and instantly they plung'd beneath the wave of ocean. 145 
But Thetis of the silver foot unto Olympus hied her, 

To carry to her hero-child new armour for the battle. 

Her to Olympus did her feet bear swiftly ; but the Achaians, 

With an unearthly clamour chas'd by hero-slaying Hector, 
Unto their galleys stretch'd the flight, and to the sea of Helle. 150 
Nor might the Achaians dapper-greav'd then from the darts have rescued 
The carcase of Patroclus dead, swift Achileus' attendant ; 
For after him in new pursuit came chariots and footmen 

With Hector, son of Priamus, like to a flame in fury. 

Thrice by the gristle of the heel did gallant Hector catch him, 155 
Eager to drag him back ; and loud made menace to the Troians : 
Thrice from the corpse the A j aces twain, clad in impetuous valour, 
Dash'd him away : but ever he, on his own might reliant, 
At one time into riot thick would sally ; at another 

Stood firm with mighty shouts ; but back he not an inch withdrew him. 
As shepherds, watching in the field, from some slain beast avail not 161 



book xviii.] THE ILIAD. 323 

A fiery lion to repel, whom mighty hunger urgeth ; 

So, clad in complete panoply, the Ajaces twain avail'd not 

Prom the slain hero to repel Priamidean Hector. 

Then surely had he dragg'd him off and eam'd uncounted glory, 165 
But Iris, swift with feet of wind, came speeding from Olympus, 
With errand unto Peleus' son, (for Juno sent her forward, 
Secret from Jove and other gods,) to corslet him for battle. 
So, close in front of him she stood, and winged accents utter'd : 

" Rouse thee, Pelides, marvellous among the ranks of heroes ! 170 
Rescue Patroclus, whom to win, the deadly shout of tribesmen 
Before the galleys riseth. They do each the other slaughter, 
These to hold fast his dead remains, the Troians to drag them 
To windy Ilium : and most doth gallant Hector hanker 175 

To sever from the tender neck the head, and high impale it. 
But up ! and lie no longer here. Let shame and honour touch thee. 
If aught of insult him befall, to thee it were an outrage." 180 

To her thereon divine Achilles foot-reliant answer'd : 
" Who, goddess Iris ! of the gods to me on errand sent thee ? " 

To him reciprocally spake swift stormy-footed Iris : 

" By stealth hath Juno, Jupiter's majestic consort, sent me. 
Not lofty-bench'd Saturnius nor other of the immortals 185 

Knows it, of all who dwell around o'er snowy-capt Olympus?' 

Then her Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd in words responsive : 
" How may I hie me to the fray ? my arms the foeman holdeth, 
Nor doth my mother dear permit to corslet me for battle, 
Ere her returning I behold ; for at the rise of morrow 190 

From princely Yulcan hath she gag'd to bring me beauteous armour. 
Nor know I other man, of whom the noble arms would suit me, 
Unless I haply take the shield of Telamonian Ajax. 

But eke himself (I trow) with it doth bargain in the foremost, 
Dire ravage dealing with the spear around Patroclus fallen." 195 

Then Iris swift with feet of wind accosted him responsive: 
"Well also know we, that the foe the noble arms possesseth; 
But, as thou art, hie to the moat, and show thee to the armies, 
If-that perchance the Troians, appall'd at thy appearing, 

Stand off from battle, and hereby Achaia's warlike children 200 



824 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

Gain respite of their toil : — and short the respite is of warfare." 
So utter'd Iris fleet of foot and with the word departed. 

Thereat Achilles, dear to Jove, arous'd him ; and Athene 
Around his stalwart shoulders slung her many-fringed segis. 
Also, divine of goddesses, above his head a chaplet 205 

Of golden cloud she set, and thence flame all-resplendent kindled. 
As from an island riseth smoke, when foemen fight around it, 
Which from the city stretcheth far, aspiring unto heaven ; 
If for their homes the livelong day with Ares stern they bargain, 
But kindle at the setting sun a mazy web of beacons ; 210 

Then shooteth high aloft the blaze, to dwellers-round a token, 
In hope, they will with galleys come, as champions in trouble : 
So from Achilles' head the blaze then shot aloft to heaven. 
He on the margin of the moat stood forth ; nor with the Achaians 
Mingled : for alway he rever'd his mother's canny counsel. 216 
There standing, shouted he : the voice did maid Athene shouting 
Double, and shook the Troians with fathomless disorder. 
As when heart-crushing foemen stand a city to beleaguer, 
And to far-piercing notes attune the blaring of the trumpet; 220 
So from the throat of Achileus was then the voice far-piercing. 
But they, when from iEacides was heard that brazen war-cry, 

"Were all in heart confounded : yea, their glossy-coated horses 
Did wheel the chariots awry, foreboding dire disaster. 

Aifrayed were the charioteers, who saw the fire unweary 225 

Dart radiant from off the head of mighty-soul'd Pelides, 
Direful: for, it Athene's self, the grey-ey'd goddess, kindled. 

Thrice from the margin of the moat divine Achilles shouted, 
Thrice were the glorious allies and Troians disorder'd, 
And on the spot twelve hero-chiefs fell then in death, entangled 230 
"With their own chariots and spears. But gladly did the Achaians 
Rescue Patroclus from the darts and place him on a pallet. 
Around, his comrades weeping stood ; beside them swift Achilles 
Did follow, shedding burning tears, when he his trusty comrade 235 
Beheld upon the bier laid out, and by sharp weapons mangled ; 
Whom verily to war he sent with chariots and horses, 

But never welcom'd him again unto his tent returning. 



book xviii.] THE ILIAD. 325 

Then large-ey'd queenly Juno sent the orb of Sun unweary, 
To plunge, unwilling, in his course beneath the streams of Ocean. 240 
So he from mortals hid his light : but the divine Achaians 
Eested from war all-levelling and sturdy cry of tribesmen. 

On other side the Troians, out of the hardy struggle 

Withdrawing, from the chariots their nimble steeds unharness'd, 
And, ere for supper heed they took, in public mote were gather'd. 245 
All stood upright in mote, nor dar'd to sit ; sithence Achilles, 
Long absent from distressful fight, appall'd them by his coming. 
Thereat discreet Polydamas to them began discourses, 

The son of Panthoiis ; — alone who forward saw and backward. 250 

One night gave him and Hector birth ; so was he Hector's comrade : 
But one did in discourse excel, in fight by far the other. 
Who thus with kindly soul harangu'd, and spake his word among them: 

" My friends ! weigh either scale aright. Full urgently I counsel 
Unto the city now to haste, nor wait for heav'nly Morning 255 

Beside the galleys on the plain. Tar from our ramparts are we. 
Now while this hero wrathful was with godlike Agamemnon, 
So long far easier to us was war against the Achaians. 

For truly joyful were the nights, which by their fleet we tarried, 
To me ; while hope I had, to hend the easy-steering galleys. 260 

But now from Peleus' mighty son grim terror o'er me creepeth. 
Not on the plain his haughty soul will list to wait, where Ares 
To Troians and Achaians hath battle-prize awarded ; 

But he our city and our wives will make his prize of battle. 265 
But to the city hie we now : obey my word : for truly 

Thus will it be : — ambrosial night awhile from combat holdeth. 
Pelides fleet of foot ; but if, to-morrow, girt in armour 

He sally and o'erhend us here, too well we all shall learn him. 
For, each to sacred Ilium right gladly will betake him, 270 

Whoso may scape : — far from my ear be such events ! but many 
Of Troians in the dust shall lie, a joy to dogs and vultures. 
But if my words compliance find, then, tho' chagrin annoy us, 
Our elders nightly strength shall give in council; next, our towers 
And lofty portals, — and on these the ample panels fitted, 275 

Fine-polish' d, double-join'd with bolts, — shall well the city rescue. 



326 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

But with the morning's early dawn complete in arms accoutred, 

Stand we along the towers : then, if, coming from the galleys, 

It list him for our wall to fight, for Mm will it be worser. 

Back to the galleys wend will he, when, neath the city roaming, 280 

He to his lofty-crested steeds hath given glut of courses. 

Troth ! will his spirit him forbid to sally in against us, 

Nor shall he storm the wall; but first the sprightly dogs shall eat him." 

To him with frowning glance replied great motley-helmed Hector : 
" Polydamas ! thy word to me no longer friendly soundeth, 285 
Who biddest us again to go and in the city coop us. 

Had ye not long ago your fill, hemm'd fast wdthin the towers ? 
For, troth ! a tale it was of yore with voice-dividing mortals, 
What stores of copper and of gold lay hid in Priam's city : 
But those fair treasures now, ye see, are from our chambers vanish'd. 290 
Many to lovely Mseonis or Phrygia are carried, 

To merchant-stranger sold, sithence great Jove with us was angry. 
But, now as unto me the son of crooked -witted Saturn 

Glory hath granted, fast to hem the Achaians by their galleys ; 
simpleton, no longer show such notions to the people : 295 

Por none of Troians will obey ; nor troth ! would I allow it. 
But come ! as I the word shall speak, let all compliant follow. 
Along the host, by rank and rank, take each man now his supper, 
And hold remembrance of the watch, and every one be wakeful. 
And if a Troian for his gear with sorrow overbrimmeth, 300 

Then, lest the Achaians swallow it, ' tis better that he gather 
And yield his riches to the folk for bountiful enjoyment. 
But we, with morning's early dawn complete in arms accoutred, 
Will at the smoothly-hollow ships awaken eager Ares. 
Also, if godlike Achileus in very truth is risen 305 

(An so it list him,) by the ships, for Mm will it be worser. 
Not I will flee him : stand will I in harshly-roaring battle 
Confronting ; whether I or he bear off the meed of prowess. 

Common is Ares, who also the vanquisher hath vanquish'd." 

So Hector counsell'd: to his word the Troians whoop'd applauding, 
Silly : for maid Athene reft all wisdom from their bosoms. 311 

Por they to Hector gave assent, who ill devices purpos'd, 



book xviii.] THE ILIAD. 327 

But none Polydamas approv'd, tho' prudent was his counsel. 
Thereat, along the host, took they their supper : but the Achaians 
Watching throughout the livelong night bewail'dand mourn'd Patroclus. 
To them did Peleus' son lead off the dirge of ceaseless sorrow, 316 
Casting his hero-slaying hands around his comrade's bosom, 
With thick-drawn moanings ; as may moan a noble-bearded lion, 
Whose cubs a hunter of the deer from out the bushy forest 
Hath ravish'd; and the parent-beast, too late arriving, mourneth. 320 
Thro' many a glen then courseth he, to track that hunter's footstep 
And overhend him : ay, for sharp the fierceness of his rancour. 
So he with deep-resounding moan the Myrmidons accosted : 

" Ye Spirits ! troth ! an empty word I on that day did utter, 
Cheering the old Menoetius within his princely chambers ; 325 

And said, I safely back should bring his famous son to Opus, 
After the storm of Ilium, with booty's due allotment. 

Truly not all their purposes doth Jove to mortals complish. 

Por here, in Troas both of us alike the soil to crimson 330 

Are doom'd ; for never in his halls old charioteering Peleus, 
Nor Thetis, my return shall greet ; but here the earth shall hold me. 
Yet sith, Patroclus ! after thee beneath the earth I journey, 
Ere that thy funeral I make, first hither must I carry 

The arms and head of Priam's son, thy mighty-hearted slayer. 335 
And eke before thy pile will I, by loss of thee embitter'd, 
Sever twelve heads of living men, bright children of the Troians. 
Meanwhile thou here shalt lie, — just so, — beside my crested galleys ; 
And round thy body Troian dames and ample -bosom'd Dardans 
Shall night and day bewail ; whom we by lengthy spear and prowess 
Did earn, fat cities pillaging of voice-dividing mortals." 341 

This spoken, godlike Achileus unto his comrades beckon'd, 
An ample tripod on the fire to set, whereby they quickly 

Might wash the gory clots away from skin of dead Patroclus. 345 
So on the wasting fire they set an ample-bellied tripod : 
Water for bathings in they pour'd and kindled wood beneath it : 
Around the bottom play'd the fire, and soon the water heated. 
But when within the shining brass the water 'gan to bubble, 
Then wash'd they all the clots away, and with rich oil did oint him, 350 



328 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

And fill'd with, unguent nine years old the gashes of the carcase. 
Then on a pallet stretching him, in gauzy linen wrapt him 
From head to foot, and over all a robe of white extended. 

Thus round Achilles fleet of foot the Myrmidons were watching 
The livelong night with tear and groan to mourn for dead Patroclus. 
But Jove to Juno made address, his sister and his consort : 356 

"So then! accomplish'd is thy will, large-ey'd queenly Juno! 
For lo ! Achilles fleet of foot arous'd thou hast. Methinketh, 

Prom thy own body erst were born the streaming-hair'd Achaians." 

To him thereat reciprocal spake large-ey'd queenly Juno : 360 

" son of Saturn, grim and dire, what saying hast thou blurted ? 
Man verily, I trow, for man, who mortal is of fabric 

Nor kenneth counsel like to me, is wont his will to complish. 
How then should i", who claim to be of goddesses the chiefest, 
(Eldest by birth, and rank also ; for that I hold the title 365 

Thy wedded queen to be ; and thou mid all the immortals reignest ;) 
Not against Troians in my wrath weave meshes of disaster ?" 

Thus they reciprocally held betwixt themselves discourses. 

But silver-footed Thetis reach'd meanwhile the house of Vulcan, 
Brazen and starry, mid the abodes of all immortals signal, 370 

Free from decay ; which for himself the limping god had framed. 
Him sweating at his work she found, around the bellows moving, 
Earnest : for he just then would make tripods in number twenty, 
To stand in order round the wall of a right stately chamber, 
And unto every one beneath he golden wheels did fashion, 375 

That mid the company of gods they might self-moving enter, 
And to their mansion hie them back; — a spectacle to marvel. 
So far completeness had they found ; but ears not yet were added, 
All-curious ; these would he frame, and couple-bands was hewing. 
While he, with soul of artifice, upon such work was busy, 380 
The goddess of the silver foot, Thetis, meanwhile approach'd him, 
And by the dainty-tired Grace was seen, who forward hurried, 
Fair partner of the greatly-fam'd and doubly -dextrous Vulcan. 
Then closely did she press her hand, and spake, her name pronouncing : 

351. Nine years old. This is interpreted, " brought with him from home nine 
years ago." 



book xvm.] THE ILIAD. 329 

" But wherefore, Thetis trailing-rob'd ! unto our mansion comest, 385 
Beloved and rever'd? of old thou dost not much frequent us. 

But follow further ; then will I with stranger's welcome greet thee." 

She then, divine of goddesses, this spoken, led her further. 
Upon a golded-studded chair all-curious and dainty 

She seated her, where for the feet a stool below was fashion'd, 390 
And call'd to Yulcan, fam'd in art, and winged accents utter'd : 

"0 Vulcan, hither hie thee forth: some need of thee hath Thetis." 
To her the doubly-dextrous god, right famous, thus responded : 

"Troth! then a goddess is within, to me rever'd and awful, 
Who rescued me, when far I fell, and trouble sore distress'd me, 395 
For-that my mother vixen-fac'd did wreak her will against me, 
Disdainful of my lameness : then dire sorrow had I suffer' d ; 
But Thetis and Eurynome receiv'd me in their bosom, — 

Eurynome, who daughter is of self-rejoining Ocean. 

Beside them, I for nine years forg'd full many an artful trinket, 400 
Bell-cups and wreathing screwy rings and necklaces and brooches, 
Within a smoothly-hollow grot. But there, the stream of Ocean 
Around flow'd gurgling fathomless with foam : nor any other, 
Neither of gods nor mortal men, had knowledge of my secret, 
But Thetis and Eurynome, these twain, who sav'd me, knew it. 

She to our mansion now is come : me therefore much behoveth, 406 
To pay the salvage of my life to dainty-braided Thetis. 

Do thou fair gifts before her place, meet for a stranger's welcome, 
While I my bellows put away and all my tools of workshop." 

He spake, and from the stithy rose, a spectacle to wonder, 410 

Limping and huge : yet under him his slender shanks mov'd nimbly. 
The bellows from the fire apart he plac'd; and all the weapons, 
Tools of his art, he gather'd up into a silver coffer. 
Then with a sponge his face around and both his hands he wiped 
And sturdy neck and shaggy chest, and donn'd a fitting tunic ; 415 
Took in his hand a sceptre stout, and on his feet proceeded, 
Lame as he was, abroad. Beside and round their lord, mov'd nimbly 
Pages in fine-wrought gold, in form like unto living maidens ; 
Which have within their heart a mind, a voice within their bosom, 
And strength; and canny service know by gift of gods immortal. 420 



330 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

These did their tasks fulfil, and watch'd their lord's command ; who, 
Sat him upon a shining chair, near to the seat of Thetis, [limping, 
Then closely did he press her hand, and spake, her name pronouncing : 

" But wherefore, Thetis trailing-rob'd ! unto our mansion comest, 
Beloved and rever'd ? of old thou dost not much frequent us. 425 

Speak forth thy meaning : me my heart to complishment exhorteth, 
If complish it I can, and if such purpose complish'd have been." 

To him then Thetis tear-bestream'd did words responsive utter: 
" Vulcan, say, — of goddesses who dwell upon Olympus, 
Knowest thou one, who in her heart hath borne so bitter sorrow, 430 
As Jove the son of Saturn hath on me especial fasten'd ? 
Me from my sisters of the sea he to a man subjected, — 

To Peleus, son of iEacus: — a man's embrace I suffer'd, 

Sorely against my will, in sooth. Now he within his chambers 
Lieth, by noisome eld outworn ; and lo ! new sorrows whelm me. 
For-that, whereas he gave to me to bear and rear an offspring, — 436 
A chief of warriours ; — and he grew tall, like to a sapling; 
And him, as in the orchard's lap a plant, I fondly nurtur'd, 
And sent him forth to Ilium, upon his crested galleys, 

Against the Troians to fight ; — yet in the halls of Peleus 440 

Ne'er shall my child returning meet the welcome of his mother. 
And while he liveth still for me and sees the light of heaven, 
Anguish he suffereth ; nor I approaching may relieve him. 

The damsel, whom Achaia's sons for him as prize selected, 
Her from his arms with contumely king Agamemnon rieved. 445 

Grieving for her, his spirit pin'd distemper'd : but the Achaians 
Were by the Troians to their poops hemm'd up, nor dar'd to sally 
Abroad beyond them. Him the chiefs and counsellors of Argos 
Besought, and many gifts to him right glorious behighted. 
Thereon refus'd he at the first himself to ward the mischief, 450 

Yet, after, in his proper arms he girt his friend Patroclus, 

And unto battle sent him forth and many folk behind him. 
Then they around the Sksean gates the livelong day did combat, 
And in the selfsame day would storm the city; but Apollo, 
When valiant Mencetiades had many woes inflicted, 455 

Slew him amid the foremost ranks and glory gave to Hector. 



book xviii.] THE ILIAD. 331 

Therefore before thy knees I come, if haply thou be willing 

To give my speedy -fated son a triple-crested helmet 

And buckler and resplendent greaves, with anklets duly fitted, 

And corslet; sith, the arms he had, his comrade dear hath lost them, 460 

A prize to Troy: so on the ground my child in anguish lieth." 

To her the doubly-dextrous god, right famous, thus responded : 
" Cheer thee ; nor let such things as these be burden on thy spirit. 
For, oh that I so easily, when deadly fate approach'd him, 

Avail'd, from dismal-wailing death to hide away thy offspring; 465 
As now shall beauteous arms to him be furnish'd, such as mortals 
Shall, one and all, count marvellous, whoever may behold them." 

This said, he left her on the spot, and to the bellows hied him : 
Against the fire he pointed them, and bade them to be active. 
In twenty censers coals were laid, and twenty bellows blew them, 470 
Sending their sprightly blast abroad in every guise of puffing, 
One while assisting earnest work, another while more languid, 
As might to Vulcan pleasant be, and aid the work's fulfilment. 
Into the fire stiff brass and tin, and costly gold, and silver, 475 
He cast ; but on the stithy next he plac'd a mighty anvil ; 
In one hand grasp'd a hammer stout, a firetong in the other. 

First did he take in hand to frame a vast and stubborn buckler, 
Of curious achievement : round he cast a rim resplendent, 
Three-plated, sparkling : from it hung a strap of twisted silver. 480 
The buckler's proper substance held five folds ; but on the surface 
He fram'd with soul of artifice full many a fair resemblance. 
On it the Earth and on it Sea he plac'd, and on it Heaven, 
The Sun unweary, Moon at full ; and on it all the marvels, 
The Pleiades, the Eainy stars, and glorious Orion, 485 

Wherewith the sky is crown'd; and Bear, which Wain is call'd by others; 
Which turneth alway on his field, and lurketh for Orion, 
And sole exemption hath aloft from bathings of the ocean. 

On it did he two cities place of voice-dividing mortals, 490 

Splendid. In one of them were held weddings and festive banquets, 
And thro' the city brides were led, escorted from their chambers 
With flashing torches : loud arose redoubled hymenaeal. 
Dancers were reeling : flutes and harps to them made tuneful concert, 



332 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

And from the threshold every wife stept out to gaze and wonder. 495 
The people in the public square stood crowded : there a contest 
Tor forfeit on a homicide betwixt two men was risen. 

One vow'd, he had the whole discharg'd, — expounding to the people ; 
The other stout denial made, — no gear had yet been paid him : 

So both an umpire from the folk would get, to end the quarrel. 501 
To each in turn acclaim was made, as each might find supporters, 
But heralds did the people check ; and canny-hearted elders 
Were seated upon polish'd stones within a sacred circle, 
And in their hands the sceptres held of lofty-shouting heralds, 505 
Wherewith in turn each sallied forth, when he for judge was chosen. 
Full in the midst, — award of law, — were laid two golden talents, 
To yield to him, whose argument more rightful might be proven. 

Around the other city sat two hosts of foemen people, 

Flashing in armour. Diverse thoughts their counsel were dividing. 
The one would ravage and destroy, the other would distribute, 511 
The gear, whatever might be coop'd within that lovely fortress. 
The townsmen no surrender yet would make, but arm'd for ambush. 
Their helpless children, consorts dear, and men whom eld enfeebled, 515 
Should man the rampart for defence ; themselves in arms would sally, 
By Ares and Athene led. Both these were gold, accoutred 

In golden raiment ; fair and tall, as is for gods becoming, 
And mark'd asunder to the eye : the folk were small beside them. 
But when they at the place arriv'd, whereat it yielded ambush, 520 
Beside a river, where a ford gave watering for cattle, 

Near it began they low to crouch, in flashing brass accoutred. 
But for the townsmen, separate from these, two scouts were sitting, 
Watching to tell, if flocks be near, or crumple-horned oxen. 
Soon did the cattle forward come : with them two herdsmen follow'd, 
Sporting upon the rustic pipe, of hidden wile unthoughtful. 526 
The men in ambush notice gat, and sallied ; quick thereafter 
From flocks of snowy-coated sheep and noble herds of cattle 
Did each his portion intercept, and eke the herdsmen slaughter'd. 
The foemen, at their parliaments still seated, heard the hubbub 530 
Around the cattle : instantly on sprightly-footed horses 

Upspringing, forth they hied in chase, and reach'd the ground of combat, 



book xviil] THE ILIAD. 333 

And forming on the river-banks, to standing fight betook them : 
So with long lances copper-tipt did each assail the other. 
Amid them Riot, mid them Strife, held bargain; yea, amid them 535 
Dragg'd deadly Fate one man alive fresh-wounded, one unwounded ; 
Another dead man by the feet she tugg'd from out the turmoil, 
And on her shoulders wore a cloak with blood of heroes scarlet. 
Such was their dealing, such their war, they might be living mortals : 
And they on either side drew up the carcases of foemen. 540 

On it he plac'd a soft new field, fat soil, thrice-plough'd and ample, 
Where many ploughmen teams did drive reversing, hither, thither. 
When to the limit of the field they reach' d, and turn'd the cattle, 

Then did a man, with cup in hand of luscious wine, advancing 545 
Give them to drink : those in the rows turn'd round to look, and hanker'd 
To reach the limit : black it was, albeit all was golden, 
And seem'd as newly plough'd : such work was verily a marvel. 

On it he plac'd a cornfield deep, where hireling workmen labour'd 
Eeaping, and wielded each in hand a newly-sharpen'd sickle. 551 

The bundles, — some, behind the row to earth did fall successive ; 
Others, the binders of the sheaves were knotting into trusses. 
Three were the binders of the sheaves, right urgent ; but behind them 
Children the bundles gathering and in their arms enclasping, 555 
With heart of effort, dealt supply : but, resting on his sceptre, 
The king in silence near the row stood forth, in soul delighted. 
Heralds, apart, beneath an oak a banquet were preparing, 
And o'er a mighty bull, new slain, were busied ; and women 
White flour in plenty o'er it shed, as dinner for the hirelings. 560 

On it an orchard next he plac'd, all beautiful and golden, 
Laden with luscious crop of grapes : dark were the clusters on it. 
Across the vineyard every row was propt on poles of silver. 
On either side, a dark blue ditch ; around, a fence he carried 
Of tin : a single narrow path led thro' the field to reach it, 565 

By which the pickers came and went, when they would crop the vineyard. 
And tender maids, and striplings slim, with gentle heart of childhood, 
Did in well-woven baskets bear the fruit as honey pleasant. 
And in the midst of them a boy on shrilly lute was harping 
Delightsome, and with 1 tiny voice replied in dainty ditty. 570 

The others to the tune beat time, and humm'd & skiii'd & bounded. 



334 THE ILIAD. [book xviii. 

On it he further plac'd a herd of lofty-crested cattle. 
Of gold and tin the kine were made : beside a rippling river 574 

With lowing came they from their yard, thro' waving reeds, to pasture. 
Four golden herdsmen with the kine were rang'd: dogs with themfoilow'd, 
Nine, spry of foot : but in the front two lions grim were mauling [them. 
A bull, that bellow'd loud, to whom the hounds and youths would speed 
The twain had rent the bull's vast side, gorging dark blood and entrails, 
And vainly came the swains in chase, the nimble dogs exhorting. 584 
These from the lions kept aloof, nor dar'd to bite ; but round them 
Stood at safe distance, barking fierce, and slunk from their encounter. 

The famous doubly-dextrous god next a great pasture fashion'd, 
In a fair copse, of snowy sheep, with pens and huts and stables. 

Next he achiev'd a reel complex, like that in ample Cnossus, 590 
Which Daedalus of yore compos'd for bright-hair'd Ariadne. 
Maidens, who dower earn of kine, and bachelours beside them, 
Therein were dancing, each the hand on wrist of other holding. 
The maidens gauzy muslin wore, the youths were clad in tunics 595 
Of tissue featly spun, with oil fresh glistering and glossy : 

Each maiden bare upon her head a fair leaf-shaking garland, 
Each youth a golden cutlass wore by silver strap suspended. 
And these with canny feet one while did scud in easy running, 
As when a potter tries his lathe, whether the wheel will circle : 600 
At other while they both in ranks, one by the other, coursed. 
And round that lovely company a troop of many people 
Stood gazing with delight : from them came forth a pair of tumblers, 
Who, leading off a melody, went whirling in the middle. 605 

Last, in it, he the mighty strength of river Ocean fashion'd, 
Along the outmost-circling rim of the close-welded buckler. 

When thus he had achiev'd to make the buckler vast and sturdy, 
The corslet after it he wrought, than blaze of fire more shining ; 
And eke the solid weighty casque, unto the temples fitted, 610 

All radiant and full of art, with golden crest upon it ; 

And greaves of flimsy-shining tin. Therewith his work was ended. 

But when the glorious artizan had all the armour finish'd, 
Before Achilles' mother's feet he brought and laid his present. 

She from Olympus' snowy height came sousing as a falcon, 615 

Bearing from Vulcan to her son the sparkling arms she promis'd. 



book xix.] THE ILIAD. 335 



BOOK XIX. 

J ust then the saffron-vested Dawn rose from the streams of Ocean, 
To carry unto mortals light and eke to gods immortal, 

When Thetis to the galleys came, bearing her heav'nly present, 
And found her own beloved son around Patroclus lying, 
Wailing aloud ; and at his side a troop of gather'd comrades 5 
Were weeping. Then amidst them stood the goddess, pride of heaven ; 
And closely did she press his hand, and spake, his name pronouncing : 

" My child ! Mm let us now endure, albeit keen our sorrow, 
So as he is, to lie ; sith he by will of God is fallen. 

But thou, out of my hands receive these noble arms from Vulcan, 10 
Eight beauteous : such never yet man on his shoulders carried." 

After such word, before her son the goddess laid the armour. 
Aloud the crafty fabric clang'd : the Myrmidons in terror 
Shrank from its dazzling radiance, nor dar'd to eye the goddess. 
But Achileus, the more he look'd, the more did rage possess him, 15 
And, neath his eyelids, direful shot, like flame, his glance of eyen : 
Yet joy'd he in his hands to hold the brilliant gifts of heaven. 
But when the wondrous handicraft his eyes with joy had sated, 
He to his mother instantly did winged accents utter : 20 

"My mother!- arms, the god hath sent, such as from work immortal 
Befitteth : vainly mortal man would vie in such achievement. 

Gird me for fight forthwith will I, in sooth : yet direly dread I, 
Lest flies, the meanwhile, entering the brass-imprinted gashes, 25 

Breed worms within my valiant friend, and do his corpse dishonour : 
(For all the life is gone from it :) so would his flesh be rotted." 

Then Thetis .of the silver foot reciprocal address'd him : 
"My child ! let not such things as this be burden on thy spirit. 
The flies, these savage tribes, that eat heroes in battle fallen, 30 

My care it be, aloof to keep. If, the full year, Patroclus 

Here lie, his flesh shall alvvay be still firm, or even better. 
But unto public mote do thou the Achaian heroes summon, 



336 THE ILIAD. book xtx.] 

And there to Atreus' royal son renounce thy mood of anger : 35 
Then instant for emprize of war accoutred, don thy valour." 

Thus having spoken, thro' his frame she breath'd intrepid vigour ; 
Then to Patroclus, stooping low, distill'd she thro' the nostrils 
Ambrosia and nectar red, to keep his flesh in firmness. 

Meanwhile along the shingly strand divine Achilles hied him, 40 
With shout of horrible uproar, and rous'd the Achaiau heroes. 
Yea, those who formerly would stay within the naval precinct, 
"Who pilots only were, and kept the rudders of the galleys, 
Or held the public bread in store, — distributors and stewards ; 
Now even these to mote came forth, enhearten'd ; sith Achilles, 45 

Long absent from distressful fight, did now appear among them. 

Amid the Achaians, limping came two ministers of Ares, 
The war-abiding Tydeus' son and lofty-soul'd Ulysses, 

Leaning upon the spear ; for still the bitter wounds distress'd them : 
These mid the foremost of the mote did hie, and soon were seated. 50 
But Agamemnon, prince of men, was latest of arriving, 
He too disabled by a wound ; for in the hardy struggle 

Koon, Antenor's son, his arm with brazen spear had pierced. 

When therefore in full gathering the Achaians were assembled, 
Thus did Achilles, fleet of foot, uprising, speak among them : 55 

" Atrides ! troth, for thee and me far earlier was better 
This present work to do; when we, with grief of bosom pierced, 
Did for a damsel's sake flame out in soul-devouring quarrel. 
Would that the shaft of Artemis had slain her in the galleys, 
Upon the selfsame day, when I Lyrnessus took and ravag'd. 60 
Then of Achaians fewer far beneath the hands of foemen 

Had strown the immeasurable field thro' my relentless anger. 
To Hector and the Troians that was gainful ; but the Achaians 
Will long remembrance hold, I deem, of mine and thy contention. 
But leave we these things, — past and gone, — albeit keen our sorrow, 65 
And the fond fancies of the heart by stern constraint subdue we. 
Here then an end I make of wrath : nor verily behov'd it 
Me alway obstinate in heart to boil ; but come ! and quickly 

Enhearten to emprize of war the streaming-hair'd Achaians ; 

So I, with Troians once again confronted, shall assure me, 70 



book xix.] THE ILIAD. 337 

Whether beside the ships to sleep delight them : but I reckon 
That of their army more than one his limbs will rest full gladly, 
If safely from our spear he scape in shock of foes' encounter." 

So spake he, and with gladness fill'd the dappergreav'd Achaians, 
That mighty-hearted Peleus' son renounc'd his mood of anger. 75 
Then Agamemnon, prince of men, responsive to Achilles, 
Address'd them, seated as he was, not rising in the middle : 

" Friends, heroes of the Danai, and ministers of Ares, 
When any riseth for harangue, to him 'tis well to listen, 
Nor interrupt ; — which worrieth even a skilful speaker. 80 

Tor in the hurly of a crowd what ears avail for hearing ? 

What voice for speaking? fluent tongues and ready hearts are crippled. 
Now I to Peleus' son reply straight open : but the others, — 

Ye Argives! ponder well my word, and each of you discern it. 
Oft time the Achaians spake to me advice, and oft revil'd me, 85 

Who am not guilty. Jove, and Fate, and the dusk-roaming Fury, — 
'Tis these, who in assembly fir'd my breast with savage frenzy, 
Upon the selfsame day, when I Achilles' prize invaded. 
What else to do avail'd I? God doth throughly all accomplish. 90 
Jove's eldest child is Frenesy, who all men doth enfrenzy, 

Accursed. Tender are her feet, nor toucheth she the pavement, 
But trampeth heads of men, with bale ; and one or other tangleth. 
Yea, once she frenzied Jupiter, whom amid gods and mortals 95 
Chiefest they call ; yet him with guile Juno, a female, cheated ; 
What time Alcmena's hour was ripe in turret-fretted Thebe 
For birth of Heracles : then he before all heaven vaunted : 100 

' Oh all ye gods and goddesses ! to my announcement hearken, 
That I the counsel may declare which in my bosom swayeth. 
A hero from my breed and blood out sprung,— him Eileithuia, 
Who painful travail softeneth, shall show to light of heaven 

This day, for lordship far and wide o'er all surrounding peoples.' 105 

Then guileful-heartedly to him spake venerable Juno : 
'Thou wilt the liar play, nor crown thy saying with fulfilment. 
Or else, — come now, Olympian ! a hardy oath I tender, 
Swear thou, that lie shall lordship hold o'er all surrounding peoples, 
Who, from thy breed and blood, this day shall drop of woman's travail.' 

22 



338 THE ILIAD. - [book xix. 

When thus she challeng'd, Jupiter her guilefulness discern'd not, 
But sware the dreadful oath : therefrom a mighty mischief reap'd he : 
But Juno, hasting on her path, Olympus' margin quitted 
And to Achaian Argos reach'd right quickly, where did habit 115 
The valiant wife of Sthenelus, son unto Joveborn Perseus, 

Who counted seven months (she knew) in hope of tender offspring. 
Her did the goddess forward bring, tho' in her months untoward, 
And stopt Alcmena's travailing, and held the Eileithuias. 
Then she, on errand self-despatch'd, Saturnius accosted: 120 

'Sire of the shining thunderbolt! a word, Jove ! I bring thee. 
Now is a noble hero born, for lordship o'er the Argives, 

Eurystheus, child of Sthenelus, son unto Joveborn Perseus, 
Thy issue : not unfitly he will o'er the Argives lord it.' 

So spake she; but his soul profound was smit with piercing anguish. 
Quick by her dainty-braided head on Frenesy he seized, 126 

And raging sware a hardy oath, that never to Olympus 
And starry heaven back should wend she, who doth all enfrenzy. 

He, after such avowal stern, from starry heav'n toss'd her, 130 
Whirling her with his hand; and quick she reach'd the works of mortals. 
And her he alway curs' d, whene'er he saw his own dear offspring 
By contumely of toil distraught beneath Eurystheus' taskings. 

Nor yet the more was J, — what time great motley-helmed Hector 
Dire ravage of the Argives made beside their outmost galleys, — 135 
Able from Erenesy to part, who once had wrought me mischief. 

But tho' enfrenzied I have been, and Jove my wits hath emptied, 
Again to win thee fain am I, and pay thee countless ransom. 

But up ! for enterprize of war, and rouse the other peoples. 
And pledg'd I hold myself to pay, whate'er divine Ulysses 140 

Before thy presence yester-eve, as gifts from me, behighted. 
Or come ! an so will please thee, stay, albeit press'd to battle ; 
And hither shall forthwith my squires, out of my galley taking, 
Bring thee the gifts; somayestthou see my heart-soothing presents." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, reciprocal accosted: 145 

" Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
The gifts (an so thou wilt,) to give, as seemly is, — or keep them, — 
119. The goddesses are here plural, as in 11, 270. 



book xix.] THE ILIAD. 339 

With thee it resteth. Instant now let battle-glee concern us, 

Nor toy, nor shuffle : still is left a mighty work to compass. 150 

As each may Peleus' son behold again among the foremost 

Wide wasting with the brazen spear the Tro'ian battalions, 

So eke let every man give heed to quit himself in combat." 

Thereat responsive spake to him Ulysses much-devising : 
f Achilles ! image of the gods ! do not, howe'er intrepid, 155 

Hurry to drive on Ilium Achaia's children fasting, 

For combat with the Troians ; sith no short-enduring warcry 
Shall greet us, when for bargain once the companies encounter 
Of armed heroes, both alive with heaven-breathed fierceness. 

But bid the Achaians food to taste, at the sharp-pointed galleys, 160 
Of pleasant bread and wine: for this to weary men is vigour. 
For, man may nowise all the day until the shades of sunset 
From gifts of Ceres abstinent confront the work of Ares. 

For tho' his spirit eager be for enterprize of battle, 

Yet heaviness by stealth his limbs doth enter; thirst and hunger 165 
O'erhend him, and his knees beneath are palsied in his goings. 
But whoso with the foe may fight, with wine and eating sated, 
Even the livelong day, — his soul is hearty in his bosom, 
Nor faint his limbs, ere every man retireth him from battle. 170 

But come! disperse the people; bid, that they to dinner gird them ; 
And Agamemnon, prince of men, shall bring his gifts before us : 
So with their eyes the Achaians all shall see, and thou be gladden'd. 
And let him swear the mighty oath, among the Argives rising, 175 

That never did he touch her bed with tenderness and passion, 
As is the ordinance, O prince ! to man and woman sacred : 
So be thy spirit satisfied and sooth'd within thy bosom ! 

Thereafter shall the prince of men within his tents delight thee 
By a rich banquet, leaving naught unfinish'd of thy honour. 180 

Thou, son of Atreus ! wilt also hereafter be more rightful 
In other men's esteem : for none can blame it, that a monarch, 
Who did in anger take the lead, again beseecheth friendship." 

Him Agamemnon, prince of men, reciprocal accosted : 
" Son of Laertes ! much I joy to hear the word thou sayest ; 185 

For duly hast thou every thing distinguish'd and recounted. 



340 THE ILIAD. [book xix. 

The oath thou namest, this I wish to swear by mighty power ; 
Nor shall I perjur'd be : my soul doth urge me : but Achilles 
Must here that little while await, albeit press'd to battle ; 
And stay, assembled, ye the rest, until the presents hither 190 

May from my tent arrive, and I by faithful oaths may bind me. 
But to thyself this deed in charge entrust I : — youths selecting, 
Chieftains of Panachaia, bear the gifts from out my galley, 

Whate'er we yester-eve behote ; and lead with them the women. 195 
And, for the Sun and Jove, amid Achaia's ample army, 
Talthybius a boar shall bring to consecrate our treaties." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd in words responsive : 
" Agamemnon, prince of men, most glorious Atrides ! 
Bather at otherwhile on this be busy, if the battle 200 

Shall after flag, when in my breast the fire may burn less fiercely. 
But now our comrades prostrate lie and mangled, who were vanquish'd 
By Hector, son of Priamus, when Jove to glory rais'd him. 

But ye to feeding urge us. Troth! all abstinent and fasting 205 

Achaia's children spur would I to war, and then with sunset 
To meet in solemn supper, when we had the outrage punish'd. 
But neither food nor drink to me may earlier be pleasant 
Adown my tender throat to pass, now as my friend is perish'd, 210 
"Who prostrate lieth in my tent, by the sharp weapon mangled, 
Turn'd to the threshold. Hound him weep my comrades. Hence I ponder 
Not food, but carnage now and gore and noisome groans of heroes." 

To him then spake reciprocal Ulysses much devising : 215 

" Mighty Achilles ! Peleus' son ! exalted of the Achaians ! 
Thou with the spear (I wis) than me art better, not a little, 
And stronger ; yet in intellect might I in turn surpass thee 

By far ; sith I am elderborn, and wider is my knowledge. 

Therefore command thy heart to bear the pressure of my counsel. 220 
Satiety of battle-cry to mortals speedy cometh, 

Wherein the sickle reapeth crop too small, but straw in plenty, 
When Jove, high arbiter of war, the scale of prowess tilteth. 
But nowise may the Achaians mourn the dead man with their belly; 225 
Por, every day, successive fall too many. When may respite 

Of sorrow be ? Whoso is slain, him ever must we bury 



book xix.] THE ILIAD. 341 

Steeling our hearts, but weeping- still ; and whoso yet surviveth 
From hateful warfare, him the care of drink and food behoveth : 230 
So may we more incessant fight against the foeman alway, 
In brass unweariable clad. Let none among the peoples 

Stop, waiting fresh commandment; (thence would evil come;) while any 
Be at the Argive galleys left. But, sallying together 235 

Against the courser-taming Troians rouse we eager Ares." 

So spake he, and beside him took the sons of famous Nestor, 
And Thoas and Meriones and Meges son of Phyleus, 

And Lycomedes, Creion's son, and lastly Melanippus ; 240 

Who hied to speed them to the tent of royal Agamemnon. 
There, scarcely spoken was the word, and lo ! the deed was ended. 
They from the tent the tripods brought, — the seven which he promis'd, — 
The coursers twelve for racing fam'd, and twenty shining cauldrons. 
Then women quickly led they forth, with blameless work acquainted, 245 
Seven ; but after them the eighth, — the dainty-cheek'd Briseis. 
Thereat Ulysses, weighing-out of gold ten perfect talents, 
Led forward : other youths behind in train the presents bearing 
In mid assembly ranged them : and up rose Agamemnon. 
Then by the people's shepherd stood Talthybius the herald, — 250 
Whose shout with shout of god might vie, — and brought the boar before 
But Atreus' son with ready hand his hunting-knife unfasten'd, [them. 
Which by his sword's great scabbard hung, companion never absent, — 
Clipt the first bristles of the boar, — his hands to Jove uplifted, 
And prayed. All the Argives sat in silence at their places, 255 

Duly to reverence compos'd, attentive to the monarch. 

So he invoking spake his pray'r, to vasty heaven looking : 

"Of this let Jove be witness first, of gods the Best and Highest, 
And Earth, and Sun, and Euries all, who in the world beneath us 
Do punish men deceas'd — whoe'er a perjur'd oath has utter'd; — 260 
That never did I lay my hand upon the maid Briseis, 
Neither with purpose of the couch, nor otherwise accosting, 
But in my tents she aye abode inviolate, unsullied. 
If aught hereof be falsely sworn, then may the gods bestray me 264 
With whatsoe'er of woe they send, when man in oath offendeth." [pon. 
He spake, and thro' the victim's throat deep drave the heartless wea- 



342 THE ILIAD. [book xix. 

The corpse, as fodder to the fish, Talthybius flung whirling 
Into the vasty hoary sheet of ocean. But Achilles 

Uprising spake his word among the battle-loving Argives : 

"0 Father Jove! great frenesies to men thou truly sendest. 270 
Never in sooth would Atreus' son so throughly have bestirred 
The spirit in my bosom, nor have ta'en away the damsel 

Despite my will, intractable ; but Jupiter, methinketh, 

Was minded, bale and death to send to many of Achaia. 
But now to dinner hasten ye ; so may we mingle battle." 275 

Such words he utter'd, and at once brake up the hasty meeting. 
Thereat asunder wended they, each to his proper galley ; 

But the high-hearted Myrmidons were with the presents busied, 
And hied to set them on the ship of Achileus their leader : 
Meanwhile, some in the tents they plac'd, and seated there the women ; 
The racers, these his stately squires into the herd had driven. 281 

Thereat Briseis, like in mien to golden Aphrodite, 

When she Patroclus' corpse beheld by the sharp weapon mangled, 
Pouring herself around him, wail'd right shrill, and rent with gashes 
Her bosom and her tender neck and eke her dainty visage. 285 
Then, brilliant as the goddesses, forth spake the woman wailing : 

"Alas, Patroclus, thou who wast to wretched me most pleasing ! 
Thee verily alive I left, when from the tent they led me : 

But now, returning, here I find, captain of the peoples ! 
Thy corpse unburied. How doth aye woe after woe receive me! 290 

The man, into whose arms my sire and queenly mother gave me, 
Before our city him I saw by the sharp weapon mangled. 

And eke three warriours belov'd, own children of my mother, 
My tender kinsmen, all of them their deadly day encounter'd. 
And when swift Achileus had slain my husband, and had ravag'd 295 
The town of godlike Mynes, thou forbaddest me to sorrow, 
Trusting to make me wife of youth to Achileus, and bear me 
To Phthia, and with all the folk to celebrate my wedding. 
Then measureless thy death I wail, thou who aye wast gentle!" 300 

So spake she weeping ; after her with moans the women answer'd : 
Patroclus gave them but pretext to mourn their proper sorrows. 
But round Achilles gather'd now the councillors of Argos 



book xix.] THE ILIAD. 343 

Imploring, that he dinner taste ; but he with moans refus'd them : 

" If any of my comrades dear will listen, I implore him, — 305 
With food and drinking bid me not my inner heart to surfeit : 
Grim sorrows pierce me : any gait I stay and dure till sunset." 

When he refusal spake outright, the other kings departed ; 
But still the two Atridae stay'd, — old charioteering Phoenix, 310 

And Nestor and Idomeneus and the divine Ulysses, 

Sagely beguiling him from grief. Yet nowise would his spirit 
Beguiled be, ere that he face the jaws of gory battle. 

But he incessant heav'd, and spake, in piteous remembrance : 314 

" Dearest ill-fated friend ! of old how quick and earnest wast thou 
A dainty dinner in my tent to range, whene'er the Achaians 

Hurried to tearful war, against the courser-taming Troians 1 
Now, thus thou liest mangled ; but, albeit here be plenty, 
In emptiness of thee, my heart from food and drink abstaineth. 320 
Naught can I suffer worse ; not if my father's death afflict me, 
Who, as I ween, in Phthia now a tender tear distilleth, 
Widow'd of such a son ; (who here for horror-striking Helen, 
Upon a soil of foreigners against the Troians warreth;) 325 

Or, if I heard the death of Mm, my offspring, rear'd in Skyros, — 
If haply Neoptolemus the godlike yet be living. 

For formerly my heart this hope did cherish in my bosom, 
That only I should perish, far from courser-feeding Argos, 

Here on the spot, in Troy ; but thou shouldest to Phthia wend thee, 330 
That thou from Skyros mightest lead on the sharp dusky galley 
My child unto his father's home, and shouldest all things show him, 
My servants and my wide estate and lofty-roofed palace. 
For, as to Peleus, he, I bode, outright is either perish'd, 

Or, with a little life mayhap, by hateful Eld is worried, 335 

Aye waiting for my mournful tale, — the tiding of my slaughter." 

Wailing he spake, and to his moans the councillors responded, 
Each one remembring all, that he in his own chambers quitted. 

But lofty-thron'd Saturnius with pity saw their weeping, 340 

And instantly with winged words address'dhim to Athene : 

" My child! but hast thou utterly thy bonny hero jilted ? 
No longer hath Achilles then a share within thy bosom ? 



t 



344 THE ILIAD. [book xix. 

Lo ! there lie sitteth, fixt before his lofty crested galleys, 

Be weeping his companion dear. The others are departed 345 

For care of dinner : he alone is abstinent, untasting. 

But come ! lest famine him distress, distil thou thro' his bosom 

The sweetness of ambrosia and drops of ruddy nectar." 

He by such charge Athene spurr'd, herself already eager ; 
Who plung'd in semblance of a bird, the lengthy-feather' d osprey, 350 
Shrill-screaming, down from upper sky, thro' heaven : but the Achaians 
Forthwith were arming in the host. The goddess to Achilles 
Dropt sweetness of ambrosia and nectar thro' his bosom, 

Lest-that unlovely famine loose the toughness of his sinews ; 
Then she herself departing sought the tightly-builded mansion 355 
Of her much-mighty sire : but they far from the ships were pouring. 
Thick as from Jupiter may fly the drops of sleety shower, 

Chill'd by the gust of Boreas, whom sky serene doth gender ; 

So from the galleys thickly pour'd the helmets brightly joyous, 
With bossy bucklers, ashen spears, and stoutly -jointed corslets. 360 
The blaze to heaven reach'd ; the earth by brazen flashes stricken 
Laugh'd ail around, and underneath from feet of men was rising 
Dire rumble ; and in midst of them divine Achilles arm'd him. 
His teeth did gnash; his eyen shone, as though with fiery sparkle : 365 
His heart in grief unbearable was clad ; but he, enfrenzied 

Against the Troians, donn'd the gifts, which toilsome Vulcan fashion'd. 
First on his shins the dapper greaves, with silver anklets clever, 
Hefasten'd; then, to guard his chest, enwrapt him in the corslet : 370 
About his shoulders next he slung the sword with silver studded, 
Brazen ; but after it he took the buckler great and stubborn, 

From which a moony radiance shot forth to far beholders. 
As when to sailors out at sea a burning fire appeareth 375 

Flaring afar ; and it aloft on solitary station 

Is kindled by the mountaineer ; but them tornadoes carry 
Far from their friends, despite their will, over the fishful oceau : 
So, from Achilles' buckler, then, all gorgeous and artful, 

356. Much-miglity . An Englishman expects Almighty ; but Jupiter was not 
almighty in Homer's conception. 360. Compare 15, 530, on the corslet. 



book xix.] THE ILIAD. 345 

The flare to heaven shot : and he, his triplecrested helmet 380 

Upraising, plac'd upon his head its load. With starry splendour 
From the thick horsetail shone the casque ; for, hairs of gold around it 
Wav'd plenteous along the ridge by handicraft of Vulcan. 
Divine Achilles thereupon would prove him in the armour, 

Whether his glossy limbs had ease for movement sharp and nimble ; 
But it, as wings, did lift from earth the shepherd of the people. 386 
Then from the flutings in his tent his father's spear he plucked, 
Huge, weighty, sturdy ; which not one of all Achaian chieftains 
Beside might brandish : he alone, Achilles, knew to wield it : 
An ash of Pelion the shaft, which, from the mountain's summit, 

For his dear father Cheiron cut, to be the death of heroes. 391 

Around the steeds Automedon and Alkimus were busy : 
Already round their breasts was plac'd the harness ; then, the bridles 
Thro' their compliant jaws they pass'd, and strung the reins behind them 
Unto the well-glued chariot. Automedon, assuming 395 

The shining hand-adapted scourge, above the horses mounted, 
And, full accoutred, Achileus came leaping up behind him, 

All-radiant in panoply, like to the amber day-god. 

Terrific then he shouted loud to his own father's horses : 

" Chesnut and Spotted, noble pair! far-famous brood of Spry-foot I 400 
In other guise now ponder ye your charioteer to rescue 

Back to the troop of Danai, when we have done with battle : 

Nor leave him dead upon the field, as late ye left Patroclus." 

But him the dapplefooted steed under the yoke accosted, 404 

And droop'd his auburn head aside straightway; and thro' the yoke-strap 
His full mane falling by the yoke unto the ground was streaming : 
(Him Juno, whitearm'd goddess, now with voice of man endowed :) 

" Now and again we verily will save, and more than save thee, 

Dreadful Achilles ! yet on thee the deadly day o'erhangeth. 
Not ours the guilt; but mighty God and stubborn. Fate are guilty. 410 
Not by the slowness of our feet or dulness of our spirit 
The Troians did thy armour strip from shoulders of Patroclus ; 
But the exalted god, for whom brighthair'd Latona travail'd, 
Slew him amid the foremost ranks, and glory gave to Hector. 
400. See 16, 149. 



346 THE ILIAD. [book xx. 

Now we, in scudding, pace would keep even with breeze of Zephyr, 415 
Which speediest they say to be : but for thyself 'tis fated 
By hand of hero and of god in mighty strife to perish." 

So much he said : thereon, his voice was by the Furies stopped. 
To him Achilles fleet of foot, responded, sore disdainful : 

" Chesnut! why bodest death to me? from thee this was not needed. 
Myself right surely know also, that 'tis my doom to perish, 421 

Prom mother and from father dear apart, in Troy; but never 
Pause will I make of war, until the Troians be glutted." 

He spake, and yelling, held afront the singlehoofed horses. 



book xx. 



JL hus at thy side, Peleus' son, insatiate of battle ! 
The Achaians did accoutre them beside their crested galleys : 
Along a swelling of the plain, on other side, the Troians. 

But Jove commanded, from the head of many-dell'd Olympus, 
That Themis should to council call the gods : then she, proceeding, 5 
Prom all sides bade them in the halls of Jupiter to gather. 
None of the Rivers absent were, except the stream of Ocean ; 
None of the Nymphs, who make their haunts along the river-sources, 
And in the pleasant mountain-glades, and in the grassy prairies. 
But all, attentive to the word, assembled at the mansion 10 

Of cloudcollecting Jupiter ; and sat in polish'd porches, 

Which Vulcan's soul of artifice for father Jove constructed. 
So in the courts of Jupiter they gather'd; nor did Neptune 

Disdain the goddess' word, but came from the deep brine to join them. 
He in the middle took his seat, and ask'd what Jove was planning: 



BOOK XX 



THE ILIAD. 347 



"Lord of the shining thunderbolt! and wherefore now to council 16 
The gods dost summon? doubtest aught of Troians and Achaians? 
For in sore nearness now to them uproar and battle flameth." 

Him cloudcollecting Jupiter reciprocal accosted : 

"Earth shaker! thou ere now hast learnt the counsel in my bosom, 
Wherefore I call you. Perishing, these mortals still concern me. 21 
Now in a dell myself will here withhold me, on Olympus, 
Forth gazing as may please my soul, apart ; but ye, the others, 
Go ye, until ye reach the field mid Troians and Achaians, 

And succour either side, howe'er the heart of any listeth. 25 

For if with none but human foes Achilles enter battle, 
No moment will the Troians arrest his speedy onset. 

Alway, I trow, of former days they trembled to behold him ; 

But now, when for his comrade's loss his soul is grimly wrathful, 
I dread, lest, in despite of Fate, he storm and spoil the fortress." 30 

So spake Saturnius, and rous'd an unremitting battle ; 
And into war forth went the gods, with bent of diverse purpose. 
Unto the galleys' precinct hied Juno and maid Athene, — 
Earthgirding Neptune, — Hermeas, in crafty soul excelling, 35 

Gainful, — and with them Vulcan too, in grim delight of vigour, 
Lame tho' he was ; yet under him his slender shanks mov'd nimbly. 
But to the aid of Troians went motley-helmed Ares, 

And the Bright prince of locks unshorn, and Artemis the archer, 
And Aphrodite, queen of smiles, and Xanthus and Latona. 40 

Now ere that with the troop of men the heav'nly gods were mingled, 
So long the Achaians vaunted high in glory, that Achilles, 
Long absent from distressful tight, did now appear among them ; 
But over every Troian limb crept grimly-boding terror, 

Smitten with trembling, when they saw the mighty son of Peleus 45 
All-radiant in arms, a match to Ares pest of mortals. 

But when amid the crowd of men the Olympians were enter'd, 
Then people-stirring hardy Strife uprose : Athene shouted, 
Standing beside the delved moat one while, without the rampart ; 
Elsewhile along the sounding shores her cry of battle echoed : 50 

But Ares on the other side, like to a gloomy tempest, 

Urging the Troians, fiercely yell'd from down the city's summit, 



348 



THE ILIAD. 



[book 



Elsewhile on banks of Simois by Pair Colone scudding. 

Thus blessed gods, on either side the combatants exhorting, 54 

Mingled the fight, and caus'd the burst of grievous strife betwixt them. 
Aloft, the Sire of men and gods scar'd Heaven with his thunder ; 
Neptune beneath shook boundless Earth andthe steep heads of mountains. 
Then all a-quaking were the feet of rill-bestreamed Ida, 
And the hill-tops, and Priam's walls, and galleys of Achaia. 60 

Yea, in his underworld -recess lord Aides was frighten'd, 

And leapt in terror from his throne, and shriek'd aloud, lest haply 
Neptune land-shaking burst for him the upper earth asunder, 
And to the eyes of gods and men lay open all his mansions 
Horrific, pestilent ; at which even the blessed shudder : 65 

So dire the hurly of the shock, when gods were match'd in quarrel. 
They fronted one to one ; against lord Neptune bright Apollo, 
With winged arrows ; Ares met Athene grey-ey'd goddess ; 
Juno was match'd by Artemis, of Hecatus the sister, 
The whooping arrow-pouring queen, the golden-shafted huntress : 
Staunch lucre-giving Hermeas against Latona fronted : 
But,Tulcan to resist, stood forth the great deep whirling river, 
Whom Xanthus the immortals call, but men Scamander name him. 

Thus, for the battle, god to god came adverse : but Achilles 
In throng of heroes chiefly long'd with Hector, son of Priam, 



70 



75 



To close in combat : his the life, 
To glut with gore the warriour 
But upon Peleus' son forthwith 
Arous'd iEneias, limbs and heart 
But by his voice he seem'd to be 
Apollo, son of Jove, I say, 

High Councillor of Troians, 



wherefrom his spirit hanker'd 

unweariable Ares. 

Apollo people-stirrer 

with noble vigour filling ; 

Lycaon, son of Priam. 

in such disguise address'd him 

iEneias ! whither vanish 



80 



The threats, which o'er the winecup oft to Troian kings thou spakest, 



Against Achilles, Peleus' son, 

Then him iEneias answering 
" son of Priam, wherefore thus, 
In adverse struggle me to clash 
Afront Achilles fleet of foot 



the shock of war to venture? 3 
reciprocal accosted : 
despite my heart, exhortest 
with lofty-soul'd Pelides ? 
not now for erst I find me : 



85 



70. See Note on 1, 385. 



book xx.] THE ILIAD. 349 

Eor, coming on our kine of yore, he frayed me from Ida 90 

With the same spear, which Pedasus then ravag'd, and Lyrnessus. 

But Jove for rescue granted me swift knees and nimble vigour ; 

Else on that day I verily had fallen by Achilles 

And by Athene ; who in front held forth a light before him, 95 

Bidding with brazen spear to slay the Leleges and Troians. 

Wherefore no mortal man, I trow, may fight against Achilles ; 

For alway at his side some god doth stand, who wardeth evil. 

Yea, and without the god his dart straight flieth, nor desisteth, 

Ere through the skin of man it pass : but if the god would yield us 100 

Eair play of single-handed war, — not easily, I reckon, 

Me would he conquer then; not if all-brass to be he vaunteth." 

To him the prince, the son of Jove, Apollo thus responded : 
"Come, hero ! eke do thou then pray to gods of birth eternal. 
Ay ! for in truth to thee, they say, Jove's daughter Aphrodite 105 
Gave birth : Achilles, tho' divine, of parentage is worser. 
This mother is from Jupiter, that from the aged sea-god. 

But right against this hero bear the sturdy brass, nor wholly 
Erom manly battle turned be by gramsome words and curses." 

Thus saying, vigour great he breath'd into the people's shepherd, 110 
Who thro' the foremost ranks advanc'd, arm'd with the flashing metal. 
Nor was Anchises' son unseen by Juno white-arm'd goddess, 
When he amid the troop of men mov'd on to meet Pelides : 
Then she together call'd the gods, and spake a word before them : 

"You twain in chief concerned are, O Neptune and Athene, 115 
To ponder in your bosom, how may these affairs be ended. 
Onward iEneias lo ! is gone, arm'd with the flashing metal, 

To meet Pelides : for, behind, Apollo bright doth urge him. 

On us it resteth, either back this god to turn from combat, 

Or by Achilles stand ourselves, nor let him fail in spirit, 120 

But mighty prowess grant to him : to teach him that the noblest 
Among the immortals foster him, and empty are the others, 
Who heretofore for Troians repel the feudful battle. 

Down from Olympus, to partake this combat, hither come we, 125 
Lest-that this day Achilles aught among the Troians suffer : 
But he in after day, I wis, shall suffer that, whatever 



350 THE ILIAD. [book xx. 

Upon his thread of birth the Fate span, when his mother bare him. 
But if Achilles shall not hear from voice divine our purpose, 

Then, when some god in ranks of war with adverse force may front him, 
Terror will strike him : terrible are gods in sight and presence." 131 

To her thereon reciprocal spake the land-shaker Neptune : 

" Juno ! let not thy anger stray too far : nor is it needful. 
For me ; troth, never could I wish in soul-devouring quarrel 
To mingle us the other gods ; sith greatly are we stronger. 135 

But from the path departing now here sit we for observance, 
On lofty station, separate, and men shall care for battle. 

And if the combat be begun by Ares or Apollo, 

Or should they hold Achilles back, or scare him from the struggle, 
Quarrel and warcry thereupon will instantly be raised 140 

Even by us : but they, I ween, with quick-decided contest 
Will to Olympus hie them back, and join the gods' assembly, 
Unto our higher mightiness constrain' d submission yielding." 

So spake the Purple-hair'd, and straight unto the rampart led them 
Of godlike Heracles, — a mound high-heaped, which the Troians 145 
And maid Athene rais'd for him, to give the hero shelter, 
When the sea-monster from the shore unto the plain would chase him. 
Thereon did Neptune sit him down and other gods immortal, 
And cloud impenetrable wrapt as garment on their shoulders ; 150 
Others on other side across, on brow of Eair Colone, 

Sat around thee, bright Eian ! and Ares city-rieving. 

Thus sat they plotting both apart, but both commencement dreaded 
Of anxious war; tho' Jupiter, sitting aloft, did urge it. 155 

Meanwhile, the brazen-gleaming plain was fill'd with men and horses, 
And by the general rush ol feet the earth beneath was jarred. 
But in the midst two champions in front of both the armies, 
Chieftains of prowess eminent, met eager for the combat, 
iEneias, Aphrodite's child and Achileus the godlike. 160 

With weighty helmet nodding, mov'd iEneias, — on his bosom 
Held the fierce buckler, and with threats his brazen weapon brandish'd. 
Thereat Pelides opposite rose, as a baleful lion, 

Whom all the country long to slay and gather force against him. 165 
He first despiseth them ; but when from callant keen in battle 



book xx.] THE ILIAD. 351 

Some dart may pierce him, then his heart against his bosom swelleth, 

Valiant ; then gathers he his limbs, and yawneth ; foam doth trickle 

Over his tusks ; with mighty tail on either side he lasheth 170 

His flank and buttock, spurring on his proper self to battle : 

With grey eye glaring on his mark he springeth, bearing slaughter 

Unto some man, unless himself before the troop be slaughter'd. 

So was Achilles urged on by haughty mind and spirit 

Forthwith the battle to confront of mighty-soul'd iEneias. 175 

When they to shorter distance came, advancing each on other, 

Then foot-reliant Achileus did first accost his foeman : 

'* iEneias ! why, so far in front advancing from thy people, 

Standest ? art eager me to meet in shock of battle ; hoping, 

By Priam's favour, lord to be o'er courser-taming Troians? 180 

Yet, if thou strip me, not therefore will Priam pay thee honour ; 

For he hath sons, and sound of mind is he, not airy-witted. 

Shall then the Troians in sooth apportion thee a portion, 

Select for thy enrichment, fair with orchards and with tillage, 185 

Anifthouslayme? Thatemprize is hard, I deem, to compass. 

Already heretofore, I wis, my javelin hath fray'd thee. 

Or haply dost forget the day, when down the fells of Ida 

Thee, left alone amid the kine, I chas'd in headlong courses ? 

Nor didst thou look behind in flight, but gladly in Lyrnessus 190 

Diddest thy knees repose : but I, by aid of Jove the Father 

And of Athene, turn'd on it my city-rieving onset. 

Thence led I many a dame away, reft of her day of freedom, 

Spoil of my spear ; but thee did Jove and other gods deliver. 

But not again, I reckon, they, as in thy mind thou castest, 195 

Will save thee. I my counsel give, — within the crowd of fighters 

To hide thee in retreat, (and not stand forward to confront me,) 

Before thou some disaster meet. — Too late the fool is prudent." 

To him in words responsive spake iEneias, Troian leader : 
"Pelides ! hope not by thy talk as silly child to fright me. 200 
Banter is easy to myself, as eke are fierce reproaches. 

203. To omit 203 — 255 would be an improvement to modern taste: yet 
Homer wanted to introduce the pedigree of iEneas, which excuses 203 — 245. 
The last passage, 246—255, seems to have no excuse. 



352 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XX. 



to each the other's father, 
which sing of mortal heroes : 
have seen the other's parents, 
offspring of spotless Peleus, 
— the dainty-braided Thetis, 
the mighty-soul 'd Anchises 



To each the other's breed is known 

Hearing the tales of old renown, 

But, face to face, nor thou nor I 

Thou, as the rumour telleth, art 

And a seanymph thy mother was, 

I likewise from a noble sire 

Vaunt to be sprung: my mother is the heav'nly Aphrodite. 

Of these shall one or other weep this day a pleasant offspring 

By Ares torn away ; for not, 

Shall we this controversy part 

But if it please thee this to learn, 

Our higher parentage ; the which 

First, cloud- collecting Jupiter 

Who o'er Dardania built :- 

Our sacred fortress Ilium 



205 



210 



I deem, by silly talking 
and so return from combat, 
then straightway will I tell thee 
is known to many mortals, 
had Dardanus for offspring, 215 
not yet upon the plain was founded 
for voice-dividing mortals, 



But still along the slopes they dwelt of rill-bestreamed Ida. 
King Erichthonius in turn to Dardanus was offspring, 

And he of mortals richest was : of whom three thousand coursers 
Were pastur'd on a marsh, all mares, in tender foals exulting. 221 
Eke Boreas, who saw them graze, enamour'd of their beauty, 
Became a purple-maned steed: thereby twelve foals they bare him. 
This progeny, when bound it would o'er Earth's lifegiving bosom, 226 
Scudded across the stalks of corn at top, and did not break them : 
Over the sea's broad-swelling backs when it in turn would gallop, 



It scudded in the hoary brine 
But Erichthonius begat 
Also from Tros begotten were 
Ilus and eke Assaracus 
Eairest of mortals : him the gods 
To bear the cup for Jupiter 
Ilus in turn Laomedon 
Laomedon, he father was 
And Hiketaon, branch of Ares, 
Also Assaracus had son 
I from Anchises offspring am, 
Such is the parentage, and such 



along the breakers' summit. 

Tros, ruler of the Troians. 230 

three bretheren unblemish'd, 

and godlike Ganymedes, 

on score of beauty crowned, 

and dwell among immortals. 235 

begat, — a spotless offspring; 

to Priam and Tithonus 

Clytius and Lampus. 

Capys, Anchises' father : 

from Priam godlike Hector. 240 

the blood in which I glory. 



book xx.] THE ILIAD. 353 

But human valour Jupiter now raiseth, now abateth, 

As listeth him ; for he mid all is mightiest of power. 
But come, no longer let us stand such argument to reckon, 
Prating like childish simpletons in midst of foeman's struggle. 245 
Both may, to surfeit, jibes retort : no hundred-benched galley- 
Would hold the cargo : pliable and rich the tongue of mortals, 
Which hither thither dealeth out rife crops of tales and stories. 
Words, as it list thee, utter thou; like repartee shall greet thee. 250 
But wherefore should we twain with strife and wrangling, one at other, 
Like women, bargain? who, enrag'd with soul-devouring quarrel, 
Pull in the street advancing, rail with true and false reproaches 
Bedoubled mutual : and wrath both this and that suggesteth. 255 
But not by railing mayest thou turn off my eager valour, 
Ere that, confronting thee, I try hard brass : but come, and quickly 
Each shall with pointed weapon taste the prowess of the other." 

Thus speaking, in the mighty shield his weighty spear he planted, 
Terrific, and around its point the buckler hoarsely bellow'd. 260 

Pelides, he with brawny arm in terror held the buckler 

Far from his body ; deeming sure that mighty-soul'd iEneias 
Would hurtle thro 5 its folds with ease the spear with lengthy shadow ; 
Oh simpleton ! who ponder'd not within his heart and bosom, 
That hard it is for mortal men by dint of will to vanquish 265 
Gods' workmanship all-glorious, which yieldeth not to effort. 
So neither then the weighty spear of skilful-soul'd iEneias 
Might pierce the buckler ; for, the gold, gift of the god, repell'd it. 
Yet thro' two brazen outer plates it pass'd : three still resisted : 270 
Eor in the central plate of gold was stay'd the ashen weapon, 
And yet two plates of tin remain'd, by Yulcan forg'd behind it. 
Next then Achilles forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
And struck upon iEneias' shield, which equal was on all sides, 274 
Into the outmost rim, whereon the brass was hammer'd thinnest, 
And thinnest lay the hide of ox : there, thro' the folds careering, 
Pierced the ash of Pelion, with clank and crash of leather. 

iEneias crouch'd, and far from him in terror held the buckler. 
Over his back the spear to earth sped eager, and asunder 280 

Divided that man-hiding orb : but he, so near to danger, 

23 



354 THE ILIAD. [book xx. 

Shudder' d, and o'er his eyen swam thick cloudiness of horror. 
But Peleus' son his sharp sword drew, and eager leapt upon him 
With terror-striking yell. Meanwhile iEneias seiz'd and brandish'd 285 
A rock, a vast creation, which not two men might carry, 

(Men such as now are seen,) but he alone with ease did swing it. 
Then had iEneias with the stone struck his onrushing foeman 
On helmet or on buckler, which would deadly bale have warded, 
And with the sword in closing fight Pelides quick had slain him : 290 
But that the shaker of the Earth, Neptune, did keenly watch them, 
And instant to the immortal gods address'd a word of warning : 

" Ye Spirits ! verily I grieve for mighty-soul' d iEneias, 
Who soon by Peleus' son subdued would seek the house of Pluto, 
Deluded by the empty words of Hecatus Apollo, 295 

Silly : for nowise will the god from deadly mischief shield him. 

But wherefore should a guiltless man endure disastrous noyance, 
Vainly, for woes of other men, tho' to the gods, who habit 
The vasty heaven, alway he doth gifts delightsome offer ? 

But come ye! from the approaching death let us the hero rescue. 300 
Eor eke will Saturn's child be wroth hereafter, if Achilles 
Slay him : for heav'nly Destiny escape for him decreeth, 
Lest that the breed of Dardanus be lost, and branchless perish ; — 
Of Dardanus, whom Jupiter lov'd most of all the children, 

Who of his body gotten were, and born of mortal mothers : 305 

But Saturn's child hath long ago the line of Priam hated. 
Therefore iEneias' self shall hold the lordship of the Troians, 
And children's children after him in later age begotten." 

To him with word reciprocal spake large-eyed queenly Juno : 
"Landshaking god! do thou thyself within thy bosom ponder, 310 

Whether thou wilt iEneias save, or leave him to be vanquish'd, 
Noble and pious tho' he be, by Peleus' son Achilles. 

But unto all the immortal gods, myself, and maid Athene, — 
We twain, — in many oaths have sworn, that never from the Troians 315 
Will we the evil day avert ; not when all Troy shall smoulder 

In wasting flames, which (soon or late) Achaia's sons shall kindle." 

But when landshaking Neptune heard such answer from the goddess, 
lie sped to hie him thro' the fight and thro' the mell of weapons, 



book xx.] THE ILIAD. 355 

And came, where with iEneias stood right-glorious Achilles. 320 

Over the eyes of Peleus' son a sudden mist he poured, 

And pluck'd the brazen-headed ash from great iEneias 5 buckler ; 

So to Achilles back again before his feet he cast it, 

And rais'd iEneias from the earth, and far behind convey'd him. 325 

Then many ranks of men and steeds, iEneias, high uplifted 

By heav'nly power, overleapt, and reach'd the outmost margin 

Of war much-sallying ; whereat for battle the Caucones 

Were arming them : then to his side came tower-shaking Neptune, 

Who with admonitory word did winged accents utter : 331 

"What god, iEneias! biddeth thee infatuate to combat 
Against the overmatching force of haughty-soul'd Pelides? 
Who both is mightier than thee, and dearer to the immortals. 
But alway henceforth draw thee back, if haply thou confront him, 335 
Lest to the house of Aides, despite of Fate, he send thee. 

But when by death and destiny shall Achileus be hended, 
Thenceforward with a cheery heart fight thou among the foremost, 
Nor ever dread to be a spoil to other of Achaians." 

He spake, and left him on the spot, sith he had all expounded, 340 
And quickly from Achilles' eyes dispers'd the mist unearthly. 
He saw; and sore indignant spake to his own haughty spirit : 

"Ye Spirits! now these eyen see in truth a mighty marvel. 
Here lieth on the ground my spear, nor do I find the foeman, 345 

At whom I huii'd it, hankering to rieve his tender spirit. 
Then verily iEneias was dear to the gods immortal, 

I wis : albeit I esteem'd his prayers vain and fruitless. 

Away with him. Never again will he to try my prowess 
Have courage; who hath even now from death escaped gladly. 350 
But come, and let me stir to fight the Danai warloving, 
And of the other Troians seek some one to confront me." 

He spake, and leapt among the ranks, the men exhorting singly : 
"No longer now from Troians stand aloof, divine Achaians ! 
But come, let man with man confront, and eager be for battle. 355 

Eor me, whate'er my bravery, the task is overmatching, 

To deal with such a troop of men and meet their force collected. 
Not Ares, tho' a deathless god, would dare, nor yet Athene, 



356 THE ILIAD. [book xx. 

To bandy hardiment, and face such open jaws of battle. 
But whatsoever I, by hands and feet and strength, may compass, 

No want of enterprize, I say, shall stay me, e'en a moment : 361 

Nay, but across their rank will I go throughly ; nor, I reckon, 
Will any Troian joyful be, who near my spear may venture." 

So spake he urging them : meanwhile, brave Hector to the Troians 
With loud upbraidment call'd, and vow'd himself to meet Achilles: 365 

"High-hearted Troians? tremble not to hear the son of Peleus. 
I too in battle of the tongue would fight against immortals ; 

But, with the spear, that harder were ; for greatly are they stronger. 
Not all his sayings Achileus shall carry to fulfilment : 

If one he complish, yet will he halfway lop off another. 370 

And tho' to fire his hands be like, I will this man encounter ; 
Tho' unto fire his hands were like, his heart to glowing iron." 

So spake he urging them, and they their adverse spears uplifted, 
And closely mingled their array, and rais'd the shout together. 
Then bright Apollo standing near address'd a word to Hector : 375 

"Hector! no longer forward stand, alone Achilles fronting, 
But mix'd in tumult of the war and in the crowd await him, 
Lest with the sword or flying dart he reach thee in encounter." 

So spake he: Hector then again the crowd of fighters enter'd, 
In tremor, when the heav'nly voice he heard, his pride restraining. 380 
But mid the Troians Achileus, ensheath'd in valour, bounded 
With horror-striking yell: and first Iphition he hended, 
Otrynteus' noble-hearted son, leader of many peoples ; 

Whom to his city-rieving sire a Naid nymph presented 

Amidst of Hyda's foodful loam, beneath the snowy Tmolus. 385 
Him, as he eager onward rush'd, the spear of great Achilles 
Struck, full in middle of the head; which straight was cleft asunder. 
So with a crash he dropt. Thereat divine Achilles vaunted : 

" Son of Otrynteus, marvellous among the ranks of heroes ! 
Here dying, here thou long shalt lie: yet upon lake GygEea 390 

Haddest thou life's beginning ; where thy sire's domain is counted 
Near upon Hyllus' fishful stream, and near to whirling Hermus." 

So spake the victor: but the slain in darkness clos'd his eyen. 
His corpse, the Achaian horses tare amid the foremost struggle 



book xx.] • THE ILIAD. 357 

With wheels o'erpassing: after him, brave champion of battle, 395 

Antenor's son, Demoleon, met Achileus ; who smote him 

With spear upon the temple, thro' the brazen-plated helmet. 
Nor might the helmet's brass resist the ashen weight ; but thro' it 
Mid bone and brain the weapon splash'd, and quell' d his eager hurry. 
Then in the back, Hippodamas, who from the car dismounted 401 
And sped in front of him to flee, with the same spear was wounded. 
He gasp'd and bellow'd, as the bull, by callants dragg'd, doth bellow 
Around the lord of Helicon ; wherein great Neptune joyeth : 405 

So him, as there he bellowed, his haughty soul abandon'd. 

Then went Achilles with the spear to close with Polydorus, 
The godlike son of Priam : him his sire forbade to combat, 
For-that in tale of years he was of all his sons the youngest, 403 
And dearest to the father was, and none could match his fleetness. 
Then in his folly, to display how swift his feet could bear him, 

He thro' the foremost rag'd, until his tender life was forfeit. 
Him with the dart divine Achilles footreliant wounded 
Full in the back, as past he rush'd ; just in the girdle's centre, 
Where golden buckles join'd, and where the corslet met it double. 415 
Unto the other side the point came thro', beside the navel : 

So, groaning, on his knees he dropt ; a murky cloud around him 
G-ather'd : and bent aside in death, his hand his bowels grappled. 

But Hector, when he thus espied his brother Polydorus 
Clutching his bowels in his hand, and on the earth cast sideways, 420 
Thick mist around his eyes was shed,nor did his heart allow him 
Longer aloof to stay ; but he came fronting to Achilles, 

Like to a flame ; and brandish'd fierce his weapon : but Achilles 
Saw him, and instant sprang on high, and spake a word of vaunting : 

" Behold the man at hand, who most my heart hath deeply printed, 
Who slew my dearly- valued friend : but now, I ween, no longer 426 
Will each from other skulk away along the battle's causeys." 

He spake; then this with scowling glance to godlike Hector added : 
" Come nearer; so thou earlier destruction's goal shalt compass." 

But, naught dismay 'd, to him replied Hector the motley-helmed : 430 
" Pelides ! hope not by thy talk as silly child to fright me. 
405. It is agreed that " the lord of Helicon" means Neptune. 



358 THE ILIAD. [book xx. 

Banter is easy to myself, as eke are fierce reproaches. 

I know, that doughty is thy force, and that my own is weaker ; 
But in the lap of destiny, I trow, our lot abideth, 435 

Whether, tho' weaker far than thee, I yet may haply slay thee, 
Casting my dart ; for, heretofore, some men have found it pointed." 

He spake, and poising, forward threw the spear ; but it Athene, 
Blowing with gentle breath, turn'd off from Achileus the famous, 
And back before the feet again of godlike Hector cast it. 440 

But Achileus, with frenzied zeal to slay his foeman, sallied 
With horror-striking yell : in vain : for, him did prince Apollo 
Bescue, as gods do, easily, and wrapt in mist abundant. 

Thrice rush'd x\chilles with the spear, thrice wounded empty darkness ; 
But when the fourth time on he sped, like to a mighty Spirit, 446 

In vain, — he then with menace dire did winged accents utter : 

" Hound! thou again hast death escap'd: yet verily the mischief 
Came near to thee : but now anew hath bright Apollo sav'dthee ; 450 
To whom, I ween, in din of darts adventuring, thou prayest. 
But when, next time, on thee I light, I soothly will despatch thee, 
If eke to me among the gods is found some able backer. 

But now on others, whomsoever I hend, shall be my onset." 

Thus speaking, with the dart he pierc'd the midmost neck of Dryops, 
Who fell before him: him he left, and next assail'd Demuchus, 456 
Philetor's tall and comely son. His knee the spear had crippled; 

The mighty sword then smote him down, and reft away his spirit. 
Next from their chariot to earth he struck two sons of Bias, 460 
Laogonus and Dardanus, with javelin and swordcut. 

Then Tros, Alastor's son, came up, and clasp'd his knees imploring, 
If, pitying their equal youth, he might alive release him : 465 

simpleton! who knew not this, that nothing him could soften. 
For troth ! no tender-hearted man, nor sweet of temper was he ; 
But fierce and earnest. While with hand the suppliant would soothe him 
Touching his knees, he plung'd the sword and stabb'd him in the liver. 
Forth gush'd the liver: dusky blood thick following behind it 470 

His lap with dire pollution fill'd : so darkness veil'd his eyen, 
As fail'd the living force. But next, thro' Mulius the victor 
Pierced from ear to ear : then he Agenor's son Echeclus 



book xx.] THE ILIAD. 359 

Smote on the head with hilted sword, and warm'd with blood the weapon : 
There crimson Death his eyen press'd and Destiny resistless. 476 

Next, where the elbow-sinews meet, Deucalion he wounded, 
Piercing the tender wrist : but he stood firm before him, crippled, 480 
And viewing death in front ; until Achilles' sword descending 
Lopt off the head and cast afar the helmet : but the marrow 
Shot from the spine on high : so he lay on the ground extended. 
Then after Peireus' spotless son Pelides hied to speed him, — 
Ehigmus, who came from loamy Thrace. The dart his navel pierced, 485 
And dash'd him from the chariot. His charioteer-attendant, 
Areithoiis, the horses wheel'd ; but the same spear subdued him, 
Fix'd in his back : thereat the steeds were in their harness tangled. 

As in a parched mountain-glen the fire's unearthly splendour 490 
Eageth aloft and spreadeth wide, and the thick forest kindleth, 
When huffling wind the flames doth roll and whisk their wreaths on all 
So with the spear on every side, like to a mighty Spirit, [sides : 
He rag'd in merciless pursuit ; and dark earth reek'd with carnage. 
As when one yokes broad-fronted steers to trample the white barley 495 
On a hard floor, the lowing brutes quick with their feet do crush it ; 
So with great-hearted Achileus the single -hoofed horses 
Trampled on shields and carcases. Beneath the car the axle, 
And the broad rims orbicular, with gore of men were pelted, 500 

Splash'd from the tires and horses' hoofs : but he, for glory eager, 
Scour'd ; and his hands intractable with carnage were polluted. 



360 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 



BOOK XXL 

.Out when unto the ford they reach'd of the fairstreaming river, 
Xanthus much-eddying, to whom immortal Jove was father, 
Then were the Troians split in twain: and some toward the city 
Fled in disorder, scatter'd o'er the plain, whereat the Achaians 
Were on the yester scar'd to flight, when gallant Hector raged : 5 

And in their faces Juno pour'd thick mist, to stay their hurry. 
Others the silver-eddying, deepflowing river thwarted. 

Then in, with mighty dash, they plung'd; & the dread streams resounded; 
The banks beside it echoed high ; and they, with countless hurly, 1 
Hither and thither swam about, borne by the whirling water. 
As when, the force of flame to shun, the locusts, high in heaven 
Mitting, toward a river speed, if fire unweary blazeth 

Uprisen suddenly ; and they, fall frighted on the water : 

So then, beneath Achilles' force, with mingled men and horses 15 
The noisy stream deep-eddying of Xanthus was confounded. 
The Joveborn hero then his spear beside the bank abandon' d, 
On tamarisks supported : he, like to a mighty Spirit, 

Leapt in, with sword alone in hand, and dire achievement plotted, 
Slashing them right and left : but they, struck by the sword, responded 20 
With groan distressful: all around, with blood the stream was redden'd. 
As other fishes flee away before some grampus-dolphin, 

And round a harbour's mooring-ground fill all the snug recesses, 
In terror ; for he verily, whome'er he catcheth, eateth : 

So on the dreadful river's flood beneath the banks o'erhanging 25 
The Troians shelter' d them. But he, when weariness of carnage 
Seiz'd him, from out the river pick'd twelve living sons of Troians, 
A forfeit for Patroclus dead unto Patroclus' father. 

These from the water led he forth, aghast and panic-stricken 29 

Like fawns, and with the wellcut thongs, which they themselves did carry 
Upon their twisted vests, — with these he bound their hands behind them 
And bade his comrades them conduct unto the hollow galleys. 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 361 

Then to the river back he sped, in frantic rage of slaughter. 

And there did he Lycaon meet, son of Dardanid Priam, 
From out the river fleeing ; whom once from his father's orchard 35 
Himself by nightly ambuscade had captur'd sore unwilling : 
Who from a figtree wild would hew with the sharp axe new branches 
For chariot-rim ; but on him came a mischief all-unlooked-for, 
Divine Achilles ; who thereon at wellbuilt Lemnos sold him 40 

Carried on shipboard ; but the son of Jason made the purchase. 
Thence by a vast redemption-price Eetion of Imbros, 
A stranger, ransom'd him, and sent unto divine Arisba ; 
Whence he by stealthy journeys came and reach'd his father's mansion. 
There for eleven days alone he with his proper kinsmen 45 

Eejoic'd,from Lemnos safe return'd; but on the twelfth did Fortune 
Cast him within Achilles' reach again ; who now was destin'd 
To send him on unwilling feet dark Aides to visit. 
Nor helm nor buckler guarded him : he on the ground had cast them, 50 
As eke his spear : for-that the toil to struggle from the river 
Distress'd him, and his knees subdued. Thereat divine Achilles 
Saw him, and sore indignant spake to his own haughty spirit : 

"Ye Spirits ! now these eyen see in truth a mighty marvel. 
The mighty-hearted Troians, methinketh, whom I slaughter' d, 55 

Will surely rise again to life from under murky darkness 

As this man now return'd I see, his cruel day escaping, 
Whom I at heav'nly Lemnos sold ; nor that which many holdeth 
Unwilling, him avail'd to keep, — the breadth of hoary ocean. 
Come! of our spear then shall he taste the point : whereby my bosom 60 
May learn, if back he still will come even from thence ; or whether 
Lifegiving Earth, who holdeth fast the stalwart, safe shall keep him." 

So, as he waited, boil'dhis heart; but nearer drew Lycaon, 
Aghast, and shuddering to meet black fate and sad destruction. 65 
So when divine Achilles rais'd the lengthy spear to pierce him, 
He stoop'd and eager ran beneath, and clasp 'd his knees imploring. 
Over his back the spear was fix'd, athirst for glut of carnage. 70 

Then he with one hand caught the spear, and held it ; with the other 
Touching his knees as suppliant, did winged accents utter : 
41. Son of Jason: see 7, 468 : also 23, 741—7. 



362 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

"Achilles! lo! thy knees I touch : show reverence and pity: 
In rank of sacred suppliant * am I with thee, Jove-nurtur'd ! 75 
For I beside thee, days agone, the flour of Ceres tasted, 

When, in the wellwall'd orchard caught, apart from friends and father, 
And unto heav'nly Lemnos sent, — a hundred beeves I fetch'd thee. 
Three times as much my ransom cost; and now twelve times the morning 
Hath dawn'd, sithence to Ilium I came, from much disaster. 81 
But to thy hands hath deadly Doom restor'd me : Jove the Father, 
I ween, must hate me : soon to die, alas! my mother bare me. 
My mother is Laothoe, daughter of aged Altes ; 85 

Altes, who, o'er the Leleges warloving, holdeth lordship, 

Dwelling in lofty Pedasus, on Satnious faii*streaming. 

His daughter, her did Priam wed, as also many others 
From her we twain were born ; and thou wilt both her children slaughter. 
Among the foremost infantry hast thou but lately vanquish'd 90 

The godlike Polydorus, whom with pointed spear thou slewest. 

On me now cometh woe likewise ; for scarcely may I reckon 
Again to scape thy hands, to which some heav'nly Fate hath brought me. 
But one thing will I say; and thou within thy bosom cast it : 
Spare me, sith as I was not born of the same womb as Hector, 95 
The man who slew thy comrade dear, so gentle and so stalwart." 

So then did Priam's gallant son address divine Achilles 
With words of rueful suppliance : but ruthlessly he answer'd : 
" No ransom now to me set forth, thou simpleton! nor argue. 
For once, — ere that his day of doom Patroclus overhended, — 100 

So long, my heart more pleasure had to spare the lives of Troians, 
Nor lov'd their carnage: many then I took alive, and sold them. 
But now in front of Ilium whome'er the god entrusteth 

Into my hands, no longer one would I except from slaughter 

Of all the Troians ; most of all, not one of Priam's children. 105 
But come, my friend! die also thou. Why thus to wailing yieldest ? 
Dead also is Patroclus, who than thee was greatly better. 

Behold me, what a man am I, how comely and majestic ! 
Me did a noble sire beget ; a goddess mother bare me. 

Yet even upon me will Death and Destiny resistless 110 

Come in midday or afternoon or haply in the morning, 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 363 

When some one shall from me also in battle rieve my spirit, 

Whether the spearthrow strike me down, or arrow from the bowstring." 

By such address Lycaon's knees and tender heart were palsied. 
Loosing the spear, he sat him down, and both his hands expanded : 115 
Achilles, opposite, drew forth his two-edg'd sword, and plung'd it 

Deep in the bottom of the neck : there the whole weapon enter'd : 
So headlong dropt he, stretch'd on earth, which stream'd with gory dark- 
Him by the foot Achilles seiz'd, and toss'd him to the current, [ness. 
And vaunting o'er him in harangue, did winged accents utter : 

" Thither amid the fishes lie : they shall from out thy gashes 
Lick unconcern'd the blood : but ne'er thy mother shall compose thee 
Upon the pallet, wailing thee ; but eddying Scamander 
Shall bear thee on his waters tost to ocean's vasty bosom. 125 

The whiteness of Lycaon's fat some fish shall seize as fodder, 

Who, fretted by the bristling gloom, amid the billow springeth. 
Perish ye all, till, — ye in flight, and I behind you routing, — 
We reach to sacred Ilium : nor shall your flood avail you, 130 

Pairstreaming, silver-eddying ; tho' many bulls ye yield him, 
Yictims, and in his current drown live single-hoofed horses. 
Deal as ye may, you evil fate awaiteth, till ye throughly 

Pay forfeit for Patroclus dead and for Achaian carnage, 

Which, in my absence, late ye made, beside our outmost galleys." 135 

When thus he spake, the Kiver-god was more in heart embitter'd, 
And ponder'd in his boiling soul, how might he quell from effort 
Divine Achilles, and from bale the Troians deliver. 
Meanwhile Pelides, holding forth his spear with lengthy shadow, 
Prantic for carnage, onward leapt against Asteropseus ; 140 

(Whose father Pelegon was son of that broadstreaming river, 
Deep-whirling Axius ; — to him had Periboia borne him, 
Whose sire was Akesamenus, and she his eldest daughter.) 

On him Achilles rush'd ; but he confronting mid the river 
Stood forth, with double spear in hand; for, Xanthus in his bosom 145 
Put courage; sith he wrathful was for callants slain in combat, 
Whom Achileus unpitying amid the stream did mangle. 

When they to nearer distance came, advancing each on other, 
Divine Achilles, fleet of foot, was earlier to greet him : 



364 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

'•"Who art thou,-whence,-of mortals? thou, who darest to confront me? 
And troth ! unhappy are the sires, whose sons my force encounter." 

The gallant son of Pelegon to him then spake an answer : 

" Why askest thou my origin, high-hearted son of Peleus ? 

Erom loamy-soil'd Paeonia I come, — a distant country, — 

Leading long-spear'd Pgeonians; and now the eleventh morning 155 
Hath dawn'd, sithence to Ilium we have the march completed. 
Myself, I claim my origin from Axius broad-flowing ; 

Prom Axius, whose stream of all is daintiest to mortals. 
For, spear-renowned Pelegon, his son, they call my father. 

So much of this: but now in turn, gallant Achilles ! fight we." 160 

So spake he threatening : thereat great Achileus uplifted 
The ashen shaft of Pelion ; but both his spears the hero 

Asteropseus flung at once ; for doubly was he dextrous. 

So with the one he frontwise hit the buckler of Achilles, 
Nor thro' might pierce it : for, the gold, gift of the god, repell'd him : 165 
By the right elbow, grazing pass'd the other : dark blood spouted 
Out of the wound : but it in earth was fix'd, athirst for carnage. 
Next, his straightflying ashen shaft Achilles, keen for slaughter, 
Against his foeman huii'd, but miss'd : the lofty bank receiv'd it: 170 
Pull half its length imbedded was. Then with the sword Achilles 
Leapt eager on him: he meanwhile with might of sinew struggled 
From the o'erhanging bank to tug Achilles' ashen weapon. 175 

Thrice did he hurtle it in vain ; the fourth time, sought to break it : 
Too late : for first Achilles' sword had stabb'd him in the navel. 
He gasp'd in carnage hideous, and darkness veil'd his even. 180 
The foe then, tramping on his breast, with vaunting speech address'd him: 

" Lie as thou art. 'Tis hard for thee to strive against the children 
Of overmatching Saturn's son, tho' offspring of a River. 185 

Thou boastest, that thy origin is from a stream broad-flowing ; 
I boast, from mighty Jupiter to trace my first beginning. 

A man, who o'er the Myrmidons holdeth wide rule, begat me, 
Peleus ; whose father yEacus by Jupiter was gotten. 

Eivers, that trickle to the sea, than Jupiter are weaker ; 190 

So, than the progeny of Jove, weaker a River's offspring. 

Yea, if he aught avail' d to help, behold ! a mighty River 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 365 

Beside thee here : but none can fight with Jove, the child of Saturn. 
Not royal Acheloius with him may play the equal, 

Nor e'en the ample-bosom'd strength of deeply-flowing Ocean; 195 
Tho' from his fulness every Sea and every River welleth, 
And all the everbubbling springs, and eke their vasty sources. 
Yet at the lightning-bolt of Jove doth even Ocean shudder, 
And at the direful thunder-clap, when from the sky it crasheth." 

He spake, and from the bank upright pluck 5 d forth the brazen weapon, 
And left the vanquish'd on the sands, by the dark water wetted; 201 
There eels and fishes busy were, his kidney-fat to nibble. 
The horsetail-crested Pseones, amid the whirling current, 205 

His comrades, shudder'dto behold, in shock of hardy struggle, 
By hands and sword of Peleus' son their leader stoutly slaughter'd. 
These next Achilles chas'd, and slew Thersilochus and Mydon, 
Astypylus and Thrasius, Mnesus and Ophelestes, 210 

And iEnius. Then more besides of Pseones had fallen 
By swift Achilles ; but in wrath the deeply-whirling Eiver, 
Like to a man, with human voice call'd out from his abysses : 

" Achilles ! signal is thy force, and horrible thy dealing, 
As man to men : for aye to thee the gods themselves are helpers. 215 
If Saturn's child hath granted thee all Troians to slaughter, 
Out of my channels on the plain achieve thy work illomen'd. 
For lo ! with carcases are chok'd my lovely streams already, 
Nor able am I, by their mass fill'd up, to pour my current 

Into the briny flood divine : too reckless is thy fury. 220 

Enough ! in sooth aghast am I, captain of the peoples." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd with words responsive : 
" Scamander! Jove-nurtur'd! all shall be, as eke thou biddest. 
Only, I may not cease to slay these overweening Troians, 

Ere that I hem them in their walls, and force to force with Hector 225 
Try, whether of us twain shall be in deadly feud the stronger." 

He spake, and on the Troians rush'd, like to a mighty Spirit. 
Thereat to prince Apollo spake the deeply- whirling Eiver : 

"Ye Spirits ! oh thou child of Jove, lord of the silver arrows ! 
Little hast thou the counsel kept of Saturn's son, who urgent 230 
Charg'd thee the Troians to aid and rescue, till the evening, 



366 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

Late spreading in the Western sky, the loamy Earth o'ershadow." 

He spake : but, rushing from the brink, the spear-renown'd Achilles 
Leapt in the midst : and after him Xanthus with billow raving 
Pursued, and all his streams bestirr'd, and toss'd aside the corpses, 235 
Which in thick numbers round about lay, by Achilles slaughter'd ; 
These cast he forth, hoarse bellowing, and in his dainty currents 
Eescued the living, hiding them within his vast abysses. 
Then round Achilles dreadfully uprose the curling billow, 240 

And, dashing on his shield, the stream assail'd him ; nor avail'd he 
His feet to steady. He thereon an elm wellgrown and lofty 
Grasp'd, and upwrench'd it, stem and root, and all the bank around it. 
Across with branches thick it fell, andbridg'd the dainty waters. 245 
Then from the depth the hero rush'd, with nimble feet upspringing 
Over the plain to fly, in fear. Nor did the River's onset 

Yet cease ; but rose with darkling crests against divine Achilles, 
To quell his effort, and from bale the Troians to rescue. 250 

But he a spearthrow onward shot, like to the dusky eagle, 
That hunter, who of feather'd wights is doughtiest and fleetest : 
With such a rush Pelides sped, and horrid was the rattle 
Of brass upon his bosom. He, the billow's force evading, 255 
Fled ; but the water-god behind pursued with mighty riot. 
As when a channel-delving man from some dark source of waters 
Doth with his spade a rill conduct amid the plants and gardens, 
Clearing the gutter of the clods; and, as it onward floweth, 260 

The pebbles noisily are dash'd ; but it with rapid ripple 
Trickleth adown the slope, and e'en outstrippeth its conductor : 
So did the surges of the stream alway o'erhend Achilles, 
Albeit swift was he : but gods are mightier than mortals. 
Oft as, reliant on his feet, he turn'd for onset, trying 265 

If all immortals be his foes, who habit ample heaven ; 

So oft above his shoulders dash'd the Jove-descended river 
With mighty billow. Vainly he, distraught in bosom, bounded 
With flying feet aloft ; for still the river, greedy sweeping, 270 
Out-tir'd his knees, and from his feet lick'd up the dust beneath him. 
Then, gazing to the vasty sky, the son of Peleus groaned : 
" Oh father Jove ! of all the gods doth none in pity save me 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 367 

Prom river-outrage ? afterward, let aught, that may, befal me. 
Of the celestials none else so much to me is guilty, 275 

Save my beloved mother, who with falsehood aye bewitch'd me, 

Saying (forsooth) before the wall of tight-accoutred Troians 
I should beneath the gliding shafts of prince Apollo perish. 
Might Hector slay me, who of all is here the bravest nurtur'd ! 
Then valorous the victor were, and valorous the vanquished. 280 
But now by grainsome overthrow doth Destiny o'erhend me, 
Caught by the river's might, as tho' some stripling of a swineherd, 
Whom, crossing in the winter-rain, a brook may sweep to ruin." 

He spake: then quickly at his side stood Neptune and Athene 285 
In mortal semblance : hand to hand enclasp'd, their truth they plighted. 
And Neptune, shaker of the Earth, did first begin discourses : 

"Pelides! be not sore dismay'd, nor yield too much to terror. 
Lo ! what reserves of war we twain, both I and maid Athene, 
Come from Olympus to thy side, by Jupiter's approval. 290 

Nor, to be vanquish' d by a Stream, for thee was ever fated : 
But quickly will his power cease, and thou thyself shalt know it. 
And if to us thou listen, we will canny counsel give thee, 

Not earlier to stay thy hands from all-destroying battle, 

Till thou the Troiau people coop, — whoe'erofthemescapethee, — 295 
To Ilium's renowned walls : then must thou vanquish Hector 

And to the ships return: ourselves, to earn this glory, grant thee." 

After such word, departed they to join the gods immortal. 
But he, (for so the charge divine was urgent,) straight betook him 
On to the plain : and all of it was fill'd with outspread waters. 300 

Aloug it many beauteous arms of callants slain in battle 
And corpses floated. High in air his knees against the current 
Leapt rushing straightwise : nor avail'd the broadly-flowing river 
To stay him : for Athene's self with mighty vigour fill'd him. 
But eke Scamander ceas'd not yet from effort; but, with anger 305 
Against Pelides fiercer rous'd, his flowing surges crested, 

Aloft uprising, and aloud to Simo'is he shouted : 

"Let us at least by joint attack restrain this mortal's fury, 
Dear brother! else o'erthrow will he lord Priam's mighty city 
Pull soon : nor will the Troians abide him in the tumult. 310 



368 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

But hie with succour speedily, and from thy springs of water 
Till well thy streams, and stir for aid thy tributary currents, 
And lift a mighty billow high, and summon plenteous riot 
Of floating trunks and rocks upwrench'd, to stay this savage hero, 
Who swayeth now pre-eminent, and rageth high as heaven. 315 
But neither mighty force, I trow, nor beauty shall avail him, 
Nor yet his splendid armour : it, with swash of mud encrusted, 
Pull deep within our pools shall lie : himself, with heaps of rubbish, 
Countless, will I enwrap in sand, and wilder the Achaians 320 

His bones to gather : such a slush will I encurdle round him. 
I will myself his barrow-mound achieve within my waters, . 
Nor for Achaian burial shall hand of man be needed." 

So spake he, and with raging might arose against Achilles, 
Curling his waves aloft, with foam and blood and corpses gurgling. 325 
But Juno trembled to behold the Jove-descended river 

With purple billow eddying to sweep away the hero ; 

And straight with shout of terror call'd her own dear offspring, Vulcan : 

" Up, Limper! dearest child ! for, thee we deem to be in combat 331 
A match for swirling Xanthus : haste, full girt with flame, in succour. 
I to the briny deep will go, a testy squall to summon 335 

Of the West wind and sprightly South, whose deadly blasts shall instant 
Consume the Troians, — men and arms : but by the banks of Xanthus 
Burn thou the trees, and wrap in fire himself; nor let him stay thee 
By words of gentle blandishment, nor e'en by curse ill-omen'd. 
Nor sooner lay thy force aside, save when by skirl of notice 340 
I give the signal; then do thou withhold the fire unweary." 

When thus she charg'd him, Vulcan aim'd the fire's unearthly fury. 
First in the plain he kindled it, and quick consum'd the corpses, 
Which in thick numbers round about lay, by Achilles slaughter'd : 
So parched he the plain entire, and stay'd the brilliant water. 345 
As by autumnal Boreas a newly-water'd orchard 

Quickly is dried up ; and he, who tendeth it, is gladden'd ; 

So dried then was all the plain, and burn'd were all the corpses. 
Then he his all-resplendent flame against the river turned. 
The withies, elms, and tamarisks, the lotus, reed, and bulrush, 350 
Which by the river's dainty streams grew plenteous, were burned. 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 369 

The eels and fishes were bestraught, and div'd within the abysses, 
Hither and thither, from the blast of much-devising Vulcan. 355 

The Eiver felt his might burnt up, and spake, on Vulcan calling : 

" Vulcan ! none of all the gods to thee may play the equal ; 
Nor I against thy flaming Are can venture me in battle. 

Desist from quarrel : from their walls forthwith let great Achilles 
Drive out the Troians : what am I for contest or alliance ? " 360 

So spake he, parching in the flame, and his gay currents bubbled. 
And as, by fire abundant urg'd, a cauldron inly boileth, 
When under it dry faggots lie, but in it fat of bacon 
From tender-nurtur'd pig doth seethe, with bubbles swift uprising : 
So then his dainty streams with fire were parch'd ; his water boiled, 365 
And halted, nor would onward flow : for sore the blast distress'd it 
From crafty-hearted Vulcan's force. The River then to Juno 
With many a supplication spake and winged accents utter'd : 

"0 Juno, wherefore hath thy son my stream with bale invaded 
Beyond the rest ? not unto me so much the blame belongeth, 370 
As to all other gods, by whom the Troians are holpen. 
But I will verily desist, if so thy will commandeth, 

And eke let Mm withhold : and I by oath also will bind me, 
That never will I ward away the day of woe for Troians, 

Not even when in wasting fire all Ilium shall smoulder, 375 

If e'er Achaia's warlike sons the torch of ruin kindle." 

When Juno, white-arm'd goddess, heard these pleadings of the River 
Again she instantly address'd her own dear offspring Vulcan : 

"O Vulcan, child most glorious! withhold thee : nor beseems it 
In sake of mortals, with distress to crush a god immortal." 380 

She spake ; and quickly did he quench the fire divinely burning, 
And back returning rush'd the waves adown their noble channel. 
So both the combatants were stay'd ; for Juno, tho' indignant, 
Set limit on her wrath, so soon as Xanthus' might was tamed. 

But on the other heav'nly gods fell vehemence of quarrel, 385 

Noisome ; and diverse ways the heart was in their bosom tossed. 
With mighty turmoil on they came : broad Earth beneath them crackled 
And vasty Heaven trumpeted aloft : Jove in Olympus 

Sitting perceiv'd them ; and within, his heart was fill'd with laughter, 

24 



370 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

Rejoicing, when the gods he saw in shock of battle meeting. 390 
Thereat, no length of time stood they aloof; for Ares led them, 
Hide-piercer ; he his onset first against Athene guided, 
Holding his brazen lance ; and spake an overture of insult : 

" Wherefore Fly-vixen ! now again the gods to quarrel drivest, 
Fill'd with portentous confidence ? proud insolence impels thee. 395 
Or haply dost forget the day when thou to wound me sentest 

Tydides Diomed, and didst in gaze of heaven brandish 

His spear outright against me : so my tender flesh was mangled. 
Now then I think to pay thee back for all thy deeds of evil." 

After such words, he stabb'd against her many-fringed segis, 400 
Direful ; which not the thunderbolt of Jupiter may vanquish : 
On this, with lengthy thrust of spear, did blood-stain'd Ares goad her. 
But she, retiring on the plain, in her broad hand uplifted 

A rock, which there behind her lay, mighty and black and rugged, 
Which for a stone of boundary by former men was destin'd. 405 
Herewith she struck upon the neck and cast impetuous Ares 
Helpless : o'er seven roods of land he fell : his arms resounded, 
And dust defil'd his hair. Thereat maiden Athene laughed, 
And taunting o'er the fallen god did winged accents utter : 

" O simpleton ! not even yet hast ponder'd,howmuch greater 410 
I claim to be than thee, whene'er my prowess thou confrontest ? 
By such atonement mayest thou requite thy mother's Furies, 
Who angry planneth ill to thee, for-that thou hast the Achaians 
Abandon'd, and dost glorify the overweening Troians." 

x\fter such utterance, away she turn'd her beaming eyen. 415 

But him, as thick and deep hesobb'd, Jove's daughter Aphrodite 
Led by the hand away, and scarce his spirit did recover. 
She, as she hurried, drew regards from Juno, white-arm'd goddess. 
Who to Athene instantly did winged accents utter : 

" Ye gods ! unweariable child of Jove the segisholder ! 420 

Lo ! the Flyvixen in the mell doth Ares, pest of mortals, 

From out of foeman's battle lead : — but instantly pursue her ! " 
She spake : then off Athene rush'd, and in her heart was joyful. 
Assailing with her brawny hand, she smote her on the bosom, 
And from her body beat the breath : so fell she there, aswooning. 425 



BOOK XXI.] 



THE ILIAD. 



371 



Thus on the many-feeding Earth 
And she, with vaunting over them 
" So may all others lie, whoe'er 
Often as they to battle march 
O valorous and hardy ! such, 
Coming my onset to confront, 
We, in that gait, had long ago 
Sated by sack of Ilium, 



the twain were laid together ; 

harangu'd in winged accents : 

to Troians are helpers, 

on tight-accoutred Argives ; 

as Aphrodite ventur'd, 

auxiliar to Ares ! 

from tearful war withheld us, 



430 



that nobly builded fortress." 
Athene spake, and drew a smile from Juno, whitearm'd goddess ; 
Meanwhile the great Earthshaking king address'd him to Apollo: 485 

"Why, Shining one! stand off we twain aloof? nor is it seemly, 
When others have begun the war. Still worse were the dishonour, 
If without battle we return to brazen-floor'd Olympus, 

Palace of Jove. But feud to me belongs not : thou art younger : 
Begin : for I am elder-born, and wider is my knowledge. 440 

O simpleton, how thoughtless heart is thine ! nor in remembrance 
Holdest at all, how much of yore we twain endur'd of sorrow 
From haughty-soul'd Laomedon ; when, sent by Jove from heaven, 



we serv'd, for wage benighted, 
and he, as«lord directing. 445 

in sooth a rampart builded 



Alone of gods, a year complete 

We, to his beck obedient ; 

Then round the Troian city I 

Broad and right noble; so their town is made a breachless castle. 

And thou, upon the woody slopes of dell-abounding Ida, 

Bright god ! didst tend the clumsyfooted crumplehorned cattle. 

But when the much-rejoicing Hours brought round the end of labour 

Benighted, — proud Laomedon with hardy threat dismiss'd us, 

Of our complete hardearned wage by violence defrauded. 

Troth ! threaten'd he with wellcut thongs both hand and foot to bind us, 

And ship us for the mart of slaves in some far-distant island; 

And vow'd, the ears of both of us to crop with brazen weapon. 455 

So we, returning, on our path with soul indignant wended, 

Enraged for the hire, which he had gag'd, but complish'd never. 

Dost thou for this achievement bear much favour to his peoples, 

449. Clumsy -footed. In deference to Lexicographers, I have everywhere 
thus rendered the rather obscure epithet eilipous ; yet I cannot get rid of the 
suspicion that Homer meant " cloven-footed." 



372 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

Nor on our side contendest, how the overweening Troians 

With children and with decent wives may headlong perish vilely?" 460 

To him the Par-averting prince Apollo spake responsive : 
" Earthshaker ! rightly mightest thou unsound of heart pronounce me, 
If against thee I enter war for miserable mortals ; 

Who like to leaves do onewhile bud. and thrive with fiery vigour, 465 
Earth's bounty eating; otherwhile, they pine, bereft of spirit. 
But leave their quarrel to themselves; and us, from fight withdraw we." 

After such speech, away he turn'd ; for with his father's brother 
Much it abash'd him, hand to hand, to mingle in encounter. 
At him his sister Artemis, who in the fields disporteth, 470 

Queen of all venison, did scoff, and spake a word reproachful : 

" Far-averter, fieest thus? hast thou to Neptune yielded 
Full victory, and empty vaunt thereby to him permittest ? 
O simpleton, why uselessly that bow and arrows holdest ? 

Thy voice no longer let me hear within thy father's chambers 475 
Boasting, as heretofore thy boast in presence of the immortals, 
That thou in battle wouldest stand with Neptune's might confronted." 

She spake ; but no reply came back from the bright prince Apollo. 
Then at her haughtiness enrag'd, did Jove's majestic consort 
With words of contumely revile the arrowpouring goddess. 480 

"But wherefore art thou eager now, bold vixen ! to withstand me? 
Hard is to thee my adverse force, albeit sheaves of arrows 
Thou bearest ; and tho' Jupiter a lion unto women 
Hath made thee, and hath granted might to Slay, whomso thou wiliest. 
Better in sooth it is, to kill wild beasts upon the mountains, 485 

And rustic does, than valiantly do battle with the stronger. 
But if thou wiliest war to learn ; then come, and let me teach thee, 
How greatly I surpass thee, when thou wilt my might encounter." 

She spake; and both the goddess' wrists with her left hand engrasping ? 
She with the right hand stripp'd away the quiver from her shoulder, 490 
Laughing ; and with it o'er the ears slapt her, as off she turned. 
Out of the quiver fell the shafts : the goddess, tear-beflooded, 
Fled the encounter, as a dove, which, chased by a falcon, 
Into the cavern of a rock hath flown, and there is rescued .495 

So fled she tearful from the war, and left her darts behind her. — 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 373 

Jove's minister, the Argicide, then turn'd him to Latona : 

"With thee, Latona! fight I not: 'tis noisome, with the consorts 
Of cloudcollecting Jupiter by cuff of hand to bargain. 

But, pri'thee, with a forward zeal among the gods immortal 500 

Vaunt, that by might and main thou hast my prowess overmaster'd." 

So spake he : she from off the ground the bending bow and arrows 
Collected, fallen here and there amid the dust-tornado ; 
And, soon as she recover'd had her daughter's shafts, departed. 
That daughter hasted on her path to brazen-floor'd Olympus, 505 
Palace of Jove ; there at the knees of her own father seated, 
She wept, and her ambrosial veil trembled around. Her father 
Drew her to him, and, laughing sweet, he spake, and made inquiry : 

"Beloved child! what heav'nly hand such ill hath wrought upon thee, 
All wantonly, as tho' thou wert in flagrant guilt arrested?" 510 
' To him replied the chapleted, the everwhooping huntress : 
"Thy consort, Sire ! hath huffled me, the whitearm'd goddess Juno, 
Who on immortals fasteneth the jar of evil quarrel." 

Thus they reciprocally held betwixt themselves discourses 

But into sacred Ilium did bright Apollo enter ; 515 

For, the wellbuilded city's wall he cherish'd, lest the Argives 
Upon that day, despite of fate, haply avail to storm it. 
The other everliving gods unto Olympus wended : 

One part embitter'd by the fray, others with glory haughty, 
Nigh to black clouded Jupiter were seated. But Achilles 520 

Did ravage men of Troy alike and single-hoofed horses. 

And as when high-aspiring smoke to vasty heaven reacheth 
From out a burning city ; it the wrath of gods hath kindled, 

And toil on many hath it laid and sorrow sent to many : 

So on the Troians Achileus laid many a toil and sorrow. 525 

But aged Priam stood aloft upon a sacred tower, 

And thence descried Achilles' form majestic. Where he turn'd him, 
At once the Troians in alarm were routed, nor of courage 

Aught they retain'd. Then groaning he descended from the tower, 
And, passing by the wall, bestirr'd the illustrious gate-keepers : 530 

" Hold in your hands the leaved gates wide-open, till the peoples 
Eeach to the city, scar'd in flight : for verily Achilles 



374 THE ILIAD. [book xxi. 

Here liieth routing them : and hence, I ween, will come disaster. 
But when they respite again at length, coop'd up within the fortress, 
Quickly behind them shut again the panels tightly fitted. 535 

I tremble, lest this ghastly man into our rampart force him." 

So spake he: they the bolts push'd back, and spread abroad the panels, 
Which, open, to the fugitives gave comfort. But Apollo 

Leapt out in front, from baleful doom the Troians to rescue. 
Straight for the town and lofty wall, parch'd up with thirst and dusty, 540 
Out of the plain they fled : but he keen with the spear pursued them. 
Dire fury did his soul possess, all hankering for glory. 
Then had Achaia's children storm'd Troy's lofty-gated city; 
But bright Apollo to emprize bestirr'd divine Agenor, 545 

Antenor's spotless stalwart son ; and in his heart put courage. 
Leaning himself upon a beech, in copious mist enshrouded 
He stood by him, to ward away the noisome stroke of Carnage. 
Agenor, when he near descried Achilles city-rieving, 550 

Stood still; and much his heart within, as there he waited, curdled. 
Then he with indignation spake to his own haughty spirit : 

" Woe to my fortunes ! if I flee from valorous Achilles, 
Whither the rest are scar'd in rout, he even so will catch me, 555 

And butcher me all helpless : but, if these I leave behind me 
Kouted by him, and on my feet make for the plain of Ilus, 
Until to Ida's slopes I reach and in the bushes hide me, 

But in the evening afterward I bathe me in the river, 560 

And, cool'd from sweat, to Ilium I take my backward journey : — 
But, O fond heart ! why holdest thou within me such discourses ? 
For if, as to the plain I swerve, he notice me, and chasing 
With rapid foot outstrip my speed; from Death and Fate no longer 565 
Escape remaineth ; for his force all mortals far surpasseth. 
What if before the city- wall I valorously front him ? 

For troth ! the body eke of him may by sharp brass be pierced ; 
One life is in him, and they say that he also is mortal, 
Tho' Jupiter Saturnius escorteth him with glory." 570 

He spake, and gathering his force, stood to await Achilles, 
With valiant spirit inwardly for war and battle eager. 

As from a thicket deep may come for combat with the hunter 



book xxi.] THE ILIAD. 375 

A panther, undismay'd in soul, tho' bark of dogs re-echo; 575 
For e'en if earlier a stab or shot of dart may wound him, 

Not, tho' the weapon pierce him thro', doth he his valour lessen, 
But that he grapple with the foe, or in the effort perish : 
So then divine Agenor, son of lordly-soul'd Antenor, 

To flee approv'd not, ere he try the prowess of Achilles. 580 

Forthwith, he held in front his shield, which equal was on all sides, 
And with the spear took aim at him, and shouting loud, accosted : 

" Gallant Achilles ! lofty hopes, I ween, thy bosom holdeth, 
That thou, forsooth, this day wilt storm the town of haughty Troians. 
O simpleton! for many a woe must still be borne beside it. 585 
For in its fortress, warriours many and valiant dwell we, 

Who in the sake of parents dear, of consorts and of children, 
Do rescue Ilium : but thou shalt here thy fate encounter, 

Be thou however marvellous and valorous a hero." 

He spake, and from his heavy hand sent forth the pointed weapon, 590 
Nor miss'd but struck him on the shank : beneath it horrid crackled 
The greave of newlyforged tin, the workmanship of heaven, 
Gift of the god; which turn'd aside the rushing brass, nor yielded. 
Then second, sallied Peleus' son against divine Agenor; S95 

But bright Apollo foil'd his hope, and cheated him of glory, 
Shrouding the foe in copious mist, and snatching him from battle ; 
Him sent he, quiet to return, from toil and danger rescued. 

Then he by guile asunder drew Pelides from the people. 
For, wholly to Agenor like, himself the Far-aver ter 600 

Stood forth before Achilles' feet and to pursuit entic'd him. 
While o'er the wheatful plain he chas'd, and wound beside Scamander, 
River deep whirling, and the god but little did outstrip him, 
Bewitching him with guileful hope, that soon his feet shall conquer; 605 
Meanwhile the other Troians. in troops affrayed rushing, 

Gladly had refuge in the walls and fill'd with crowds the city. 
Nor longer ventur'd they to wait outside the town and rampart 
One for another, and to learn, — who fell, and who surviveth : 610 
But all, whom feet and knees bare off, pour'd gladly to the city. 



376 THE ILIAD. [book xxii. 



BOOK XXII. 

1 hus scar'd and routed from the plain, as fawns, within the city 
They cool'd themselves from sweat, and drank, and heal'd the thirst of 
Against the noble buttresses reclining : but the Achaians [water, 

Nearer unto the wall advanc'd, with shields aslant on shoulder. 
Hector alone by deadly doom from Jupiter was fetter'd, 5 

In front of Ilium, beside the Skaean gates, to tarry. 

But bright Apollo, speaking clear, address'd the son of Peleus : 

"Why, Peleus 5 sou ! with speedy foot, thyself a mortal, chasest 
Me, an immortal son of Jove ? nor yet dost thou beknow me ; 
But hankerest unflinching. Troth ! the Troians are escaped, 10 

Whom thou didst late affray : all these into the town are crowded, 
Enjoying thy neglect ; and thou art hither gone aroaming. 
But me thou wilt not slay ; for I to Destiny am scatheless." 

To him Achilles, fleet of foot, responded, sore indignant : 
" Thou, deadliest of all the gods, hast foil'd me, Far-averter ! 15 
Who from the rampart me hast turn'd : else many an armed Troian, 
Ere they might reach to ILium, yonder the earth had bitten. 
But me of glory great thou now hast cheated, them reserving 
Eight easily ; for free art thou from fear of after-vengeance. 
Troth, would I vengeance take on thee, if but I had the power." 20 

Thus saying, he with haughty soul toward the city hied him, 
Speeding, as with the chariot may a prize bearing courser, 

Who spanking broad along the lea full easily careereth : 
So Achileus his feet and knees did ply, untir'd and supple. 

But him did aged Priam's eyes first ken, as oe'r the champaign 25 
Swift rush'd he, flashing like the star, which forth in autumn cometh, 
Which was also by ancient men Orion's Dog entitled ; 
Whose rays in gloom of night appear mid many stars resplendent ; 
Tor he by far most brilliant is, and sign of woe is counted, 30 
And beareth fever plentiful to miserable mortals : 



book xxn.] THE ILIAD. 377 

So brilliant was the brass upon the running hero's bosom. 
Then groan'd the aged man, and struck his head with hands uplifted, 
And call'd, imploring his dear son, who, match'd against Achilles, 35 
Before the gates for battle stood, immeasurably eager. 

Him the old man, with arms outstretch'd, right piteous accosted : 
" Hector! dear child! with single might await not thou this hero 
Apart from others, lest that thou do quickly fate encounter, 
Vanquish'd by Peleus' son : for he than thee by far is stronger. 40 
Ah cruel! would that from the gods such tenderness might greet him, 
Such as from me : then quickly should vultures and dogs devour him 
Prostrate: so would my inmost heart of sorrow grim be lightened: 
A man, who hath bereaved me of children brave and many, 
Slaying, or selling in the mart of some far-distant island. 45 

Now too, my eyes Lycaon miss, nor Polydorus see I, 
Two children, whom Laothoe, a royal woman, bare me, 
Who stand not with the fugitives, into our city crowded. 
Now if amid the foeman's host they live, we might redeem them : 
Eor brass and gold is still within: for old illustrious Altes 50 

Sent many a costly purtenance, an honour to his daughter. 
But if already they be dead and in the house of Pluto, 

This to their parents grief will be, — to me and to their mother ; 
Yet to the other folk rfathless more shortliv'd were the sorrow, 

Unless thou, Hector ! fall also, by Achileus o'ermaster'd. 55 

Nay, but within the city-wall be screen'd, my child ! to rescue 

The Troian dames and men of Troy, nor yield a mighty glory 
To Peleus' sou and be thyself of tender life bereaved. 

Pity thou eke unhappy me, who still have thought and feeling, 

Ill-fated ; whom on steps of Eld Saturnius the father 60 

By noisome doom shall waste, when I on many a woe have gazed, — 
Sons slaughter'd, daughters torn away, and bridal chambers ravag'd, 
And infants hurl'd upon the ground in grim embrace of foemen, 
And my sons' partners rudely dragg'd by deadly hands of Argives. 65 
Me last of all before my gates raw-eating dogs shall mangle, 

When stab or shot of dart shall take the life from out my members. 
Those dogs,whom in my palace halls I feed from off my table, 
The guardians of my doors, shall lie raving upon my threshold, 70 



378 THE ILIAD. [book xxn. 

Swilling my lifeblood. Naught for youth unseemly 'tis, in battle 
By savage Ares slain, — to lie, by the sharp weapon mangled. 

For to the warriour, in death happen what may, 'tis comely. 

But when an aged man is slain, and with immodest outrage, 
Despite of hoary head and chin, the dogs his corpse dishonour, 75 
This do I deem most piteous to miserable mortals." 

He spake ; and many a hoary hair pluck'd from his head : but Hector 
Abode unyielding : thereupon on other side his mother 

With loosen'd robe and open breast and wailing voice implor'd him. 80 
So she with tear-befiooded cheeks did winged accents utter : 

" Hector, my child ! revere my breast, and pity thy own mother. 
If e'er the soothing teat to thee I held ; dear child ! obey me. 
Ward from within the wall the foe, nor stand in front against him, 85 
Cruel ! for if he vanquish thee, never shall I bewail thee 
Upon thy pallet, darling bud ! nor thy rich-dowed consort ; 

But far from us the nimble dogs by Argive ships shall eat thee." 

Thus weeping did the parents twain address their dearest offspring 90 
With much entreaty ; nor avail'd to move the mind of Hector : 
But still he waited the approach of terrible Achilles. 
As at his den a mountain-snake, which evil bane hath eaten, 
With direful anger in his heart a man's assault awaiteth ; 
And horrid is his glance of eye, as round his* den he twineth : 95 
So Hector stirr'd not from his post, possest by quenchless valour, 
But on the tower's shelving ledge his shining buckler propped. 
Then he with indignation spake to his own haughty spirit : 

" Ha, wretched ! if I enter now within the gates and rampart, 
Polydaraas will earliest reproaches lay upon me, 100 

Who plainly counsell'd, to conduct the Troians to the city, 
During the deadly night, which first arous'd divine Achilles. 
But I his counsel follow'd not, which verily was better. 
Now, sith infatuate I was, and many lives have wasted, 

I blush before the men of Troy and trailing-robed women, 105 
Lest haply some one, than myself far worser, say hereafter : — 
' Hector the Troian folk destroy'd, on his own might reliant.' 
So will they say : thereat to me the odds were vastly better, 
Confronted with Achilles' force, to come away his victor, 



book xxti.] THE ILIAD. 379 

Or else before the city-gate myself to die with glory. 110 

Now, if aside my bossy shield I lay, and sturdy helmet, 

And prop against the wall my spear, and venture thus, confronting 

Spotless Achilles ; and benight, that I will Helen render, 

And with her all the gear, whatso within his hollow galleys 115 

Did Alexander bring to Troy ; — • which was the strife's beginning ; — 

That I both this to Atreus' sons will yield, and give beside it, 

All of the city's hidden store, as payment to the Achaians ; 

And take upon the Troians a solemn oath of elders, 

Naught to conceal, but forward bring for common distribution 120 

The gear, whatever may be coop'd within our lovely fortress : — 

But oh fond heart ! why holdest thou within me such discourses ? 

Should I draw near and supplicate, yet will he know no pity, 

Nor will revere my coming ; but will slaughter me, tho' naked, 

Thus helpless as a woman, when I shall of armour strip me. 125 

Nowise from oak or rock may we, as bachelour to maiden, 

Converse ; as bachelour and maid hold, each with other, converse. 

Better it is, in instant strife to grapple ; so we quickly 

May learn, to which the Olympian vouchsafeth higher glory." 130 

So heaving in his heart, he stood ; but near him came Achilles, 
A peer to Enyalius, that warriour helm-shaking, 

And pois'd the ash of Pelion over his better shoulder, 

Dreadful ; and brass upon his frame from head to ankle glitter'd, 
In semblance as a blazing fire or rising sun in splendour. J 35 

But Hector, when he saw, was seiz'd with trembling ; nor endur'd he 
There to abide ; but left the gates behind, and fled in terror. 
But after him Pelides rush'd, on speedy feet reliant. 

As o'er the mountain-side a kite, of feather' d wights the nimblest, 
Glideth along his easy path after a trembler pigeon; 140 

Which flees beneath him; he behind with shrilly scream approaching 
Souseth right oft upon the game, with heart intent to gripe it : 
So he, all eager for revenge, flew straight ; but Hector hurried 

Plying his supple knees, to course beneath the Troian rampart. 

126. From oak or rock : i. e. from a respectful distance (?). 
132. Enyalius ; another name of Ares, as in 13, 520. 



380 THE ILIAD. [book xxii. 

And they, within the watchman's highth, within the windy figtree, 145 

Ever beside the chariot-road under the fortress sped them. 

Then to the dainty streaming wells they came, whereat two sources 

Gush forth, that feed the silver depths of eddying Scamander. 

The one with water alway warm rilleth, and smoke around it, 

As tho' from blazing fire, aloft from off the surface riseth : 150 

The other hurrieth abroad like unto hail in summer, 

Or as the cold of melting snow, or ice from out the water. 

Here stand beside them washing-seats, broad slabs of dainty marble, 

Where wives and daughters fair of Troy did wash their shining garments 

In former days, while peace was yet, ere came Achaia's children. 156 

Hereby ran they, in flight the one, the other close pursuing. 

Brave was in sooth the man who fled, but braver the pursuer, 

And fierce their hurry ; sith, I wis, to them the prize of running 

No victim was nor hide of ox, which prizes are of swiftness; 160 

]Nfay, but they scudded for the life of courser-taming Hector. 

As fleetly round the goal may race the single-hoofed horses 

Prize-bearers ; when a costly prize, a tripod or a woman, 

Is offer'd, at the burial of some deceased hero ; 

So round and round three times the twain did Priam's city compass 165 

In rapid running. All the gods look'd down to see the contest. 

Thereat the Sire of gods and men to them began discourses : 

"Ye Spirits! lo! beneath my eyes I view a loved hero 
Chas'd round his rampart; and my heart hath pity upon Hector, 
Who never fail'd to burn to me the costly thighs of oxen, 170 

One while upon the pinnacles of dell-abounding Ida, 

Elsewhile upon the city's highth : but now divine Achilles 
With speedy feet pursueth him around the walls of Priam. 
But come, bethink you, all ye gods ! and enter into counsel, 
Whether we now from coming death shall save him, or shall quickly 175 
Beneath Achilles, Peleus' son, slay him, albeit noble." 

Hereon responsive spake to him Athene, grey-ey'd goddess : 
" Sire of the shining Thunderbolt ! what sayest thou, Dark-clouded ! 
A man, who mortal is of birth, long syne by doom predestin'd, 
Him from sad-wailing Aides dost ponder to deliver? 180 

145. Watchman's highth ; see 2, 793. Wild figtree ; 6, 433. 



book xxii.] THE ILIAD. 381 

Do it : but we, the other gods, not all shall praise thy doing." 

Then cloud-collecting Jupiter reciprocal address'd her : 
" Cheer thee, beloved, Trito-born ! not with a soul so earnest 
Have I harangu'd : and fain would I to thee, my child ! be gentle. 
Do, as thy bosom prompteth thee, and start not from thy purpose." 

He by such charge Athene spurr'd, herself already eager, 186 

And, speedy darting, down she came from summits of Olympus. 

But swift Achilles Hector chas'd with unremitting scuffle. 
As o'er the mountains may a hound pursue thro' glen and thicket 190 
A fawn, awaken'd from its lair ; and tho', in bushes crouching, 
It hide, yet tracking, on he scuds, until he overhend it : 
So Hector vainly would elude the race of swift Pelides. 

Oft as toward the Dardan gates and the well-builded towers 195 
He sped, in hope they might by darts scare from above his foeman ; 
So oft by intercepting rush toward the plain he turn'd him. 

As one who dreaming tries to run, can neither flee nor follow, 
So nor could Hector flee away, nor could Achilles catch him. 200 
Nor troth! had Hector then so long the fates of Death evaded, 
But that Apollo first and last did faithful stand beside him, 

And breathed vigour in his heart and supple made his members. 
Then to the peoples with his head divine Achilles nodded, 205 

Forbidding others at the foe their stinging darts to shower ; 

Lest any, hitting, glory win, and he but follow second. 

But when the combatants arriv'd the fourth time at the fountains, 
The general Father thereupon his golden balance poised, 

And, charg'd with death slow-lingering, two fates he cast within it, 210 
For courser-taming Hector this; that for the son of Peleus. 
He rais'd the scales; and tilting fell the auspicious hour of Hector. 
To Pluto fleeted then his years 3 and bright Apollo left him. 

But to Achilles' aid arriv'd Athene, grey-ey'd goddess, 

And standing near beside him, she did winged accents utter : 215 

" Gallant Achilles, dear to Jove ! now shall we twain, I reckon, 
Unto the galleys bear away great glory for the Achaians 

By Hector's slaughter ; tho' he be insatiate of battle. 
Sith as no longer now from us escape to him is open, 
Not tho' Apollo Far-averter strive with much entreaty, 220 



382 THE ILIAD. [bookxxti. 

Tailing around the knees of Jove the segisholding Father. 
But stand thou now and breath regain ; and I, to him proceeding, 
By counsel will persuade his heart with adverse might to front thee." 

So spake Athene : he obey'd, and in his soul was joyful, 
And leaning on the ashen shaft barbed with brass, he halted. 225 
Him then she quitted, and was found at side of godlike Hector, 
With semblance of Deiphobus, in shape and voice unwearied. 
There, near before his face, she stood, and winged accents utter'd : 

" My gracious sir ! swift Achileus too hard doth press upon thee, 
Chasing with fleet-careering foot around the walls of Priam : 230 
But let us stand and hold our ground, and sturdily repel him." 
To him with word responsive spake great motley -helmed Hector : 
" Deiphobus ! eke heretofore wast thou to me far dearest 

Of all my kin, whom Hecuba to Priam gave as offspring. 

Now, more than ever, in my heart I purpose, thee to honour, 235 
Who, when thy eyes took note of me, hast for my sake adventur'd 
Out of the rampart; but the rest abide within securely." 

Then him reciprocal address'd Athene, grey-ey'd goddess : 
" gracious brother ! truly me my sire and queenly mother, 
By turns embracing, much implor'd, — and after them my comrades, — ■ 
There to abide : so great a dread hath overmaster'd all men : 241 
But still my heart was inwardly by mournful sorrow wasted. 
And now with onward eagerness fight we : no stint is needed 
Of javelins : so shall we know, if of our lives Achilles 
Havoc shall make, and bear away a prize of gory trophies 245 

Unto the smoothly-hollow ships, or by thy spear be vanquish'd." 

Thro' such pretences of the lip, with guile Athene led him. 
When they to nearer distance came advancing each on other, 
Unto Achilles 'gan to speak great motley-helmed Hector : 

"No longer, Peleus' son! will I, as heretofore, avoid thee. 250 

Thrice fled I round the mighty wall of Priam, nor adventur'd 
Thy coming to await : but now in turn my spirit prompteth 
To stand against thee : so will I or vanquish or be vanquish'd. 
But come, and gage we by the gods: these, who of all are highest, 
Are eke the best of witnesses and overseers of treaties. 25 i 

No extreme outrage I on thee will lay, if Jove may haply 



book xxii.] THE ILIAD. 383 

Grant me enduring hardiment, and if I rieve thy spirit : 
But soon as I have stript away thy noble arms, Achilles ! 
I to thy friends thy corpse will yield: to this be tliou too plighted." 

To him Achilles, fleet of foot, with scowling glance responded : 
" Of no agreements talk to me, inexpiable Hector ! 261 

As not to lions and to men is oath of faithful treaty, 

And as thro' heart of wolf and lamb no spirit breatheth common, 
But each to other constantly hath naught but evil hatred : 

So no affection may arise twixt thee and me, nor treaties 265 

Will I engage ; but first, I ween, shall one or other falling- 
Glut with his gore the warriour, unweariable Ares. 
Call to remembrance all thy skill and valour : now, if ever, 
A thorough spearman prove thyself and warriour intrepid. 
No more evasion hast thou here : straightway doth maid Athene 270 
Cast thee beneath my spear, and thou shalt in one sum repay me 
The sorrows of my comrades, whom thy frantic spear hath slaughter'd." 

He spake, and poising forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow : 
But Hector saw it opposite, and stoop'd to shun its fury ; 

So o'er him flew the brazen point, and in the earth was fasten'd. 275 
But maid Athene caught it up, and instant to Achilles 
Kestor'd it : thus deluded she Hector, the people's shepherd. 

Then Hector confident address'd the spotless son of Peleus : 
" Achilles, image of the gods ! not yet my fate thou knewest 
From Jupiter ; but me thy spear hath miss'd, despite thy menace. 
Thou art, methinketh, apt of speech, and crafty in haranguing, 281 

In hope, so might I thro' alarm forget intrepid valour. 
Not in my fleeing back shalt thou thy dart implant ; but drive it 
(If so the god have granted thee) straight thro' my eager bosom. 
Shun now my brazen spear in turn. might thy flesh receive it 285 
Entire ! so should the war become far lighter to the Troians 
By thy destruction ; sith to them art tliou the direst noyance." 

He spake, and poising forward threw the spear with lengthy shadow, 
Nor miss'd; but in the middle hit the buckler of Pelides. 290 

But from the buckler glanc'd the dart afar : then shudder'd Hector, 
Indignant, that the pointed spear he fruitlessly had urged. 
No other ashen shaft had he ; so stood he there, desponding, 



384 THE ILIAD. [book xxn. 

And loudly summon'd to his aid Deiphobus white-shielded, 
Asking of him a lengthy spear : but nowhere near he saw him. 295 
Then Hector in his inward heart discern'd, and spake foreboding : 
cc Ye Spirits! verily, I wis, the gods to death have call'd me. 

Eight sure was I, — Deiphobus the hero stood beside me ; 
But him the wall doth hide, and me Athene hath beguiled. 
And now an evil death to me is near, nor longer- distant : 300 

Escape is none : for thus of old, methinketh, was it pleasing 
To Jove and Jove's far-darting son, who heretofore were alway 
Zealous to rescue me ; but now in turn doth Eate o'erhend me. 
Yet would I not inglorious without a struggle perish, 

But after some achievement high for future age to talk of." 305 

He spake, and drew his shining sword, which sharp and great and stal- 
Hung at his hip, then on he rush'd collected, as an eagle [wart 

High-flying thro' the murky clouds upon the plain descendeth, 
Pouncing upon a tender lamb or trembling hare ; so Hector 310 

Rush'd, brandishing his whetted sword. Against him sped Achilles, 
With savage rancour full-possest, and held before his bosom 
His buckler fair and curious, and nodded with the helmet 

Eour-crested, all-irradiant ; for hairs of gold around it 315 

Wav'd plenteous along the ridge by handicraft of Yulcan. 
As in the sky at dusk of night the Even-star appeareth, 
The fairest stud in heaven's host ; such radiance was kindled 
From off the polish'd spear-point, which in his right hand Achilles 
Brandish'd, with thoughts of deadly bale for godlike Hector heaving, 320 
And ponder'd, where the tender skin might best admit his weapon, 
The brazen armour beauteous, which he from slain Patroclus [der, 
Had stript, did elsewhere screen his flesh: save twixt the neck and shoul- 
Beside the collar-bone and throat, where life hath quickest exit; 325 
Therein did godlike Acbileus with eager weapon pierce him, 

And thro' the tender neck its point outright behind him issued. 
Nor did the brazen-weighted ash his weazand cut asunder ; 
So should his throat avail to speak responsive to Achilles. 
Then dropt he in the dust; whereat divine Achilles boasted : 330 

"Hector! thy thought it was, I ween, in stripping slain Patroclus, 
Secure to be, nor heldest count of me apart remaining. 



book xxii.] THE ILIAD. 385 

O simpleton ! but / behind, far mightier avenger, 

Was left, beside the hollow ships ; who have thy sinews loosen'd. 335 

Now thee foul dogs and birds shall rend, and him the Achaians bury." 

To him, with puny vigour left spake motley-helmed Hector : 
" I by thy life and by thy knees implore, and by thy parents, 
Give me not up, to dogs a prey, beside the Achaian galleys ; 
But from my father's hands accept, and from my queenly mother, 340 
Copper in many kinds, and gold, and other presents costly ; 
And give my lifeless body back unto my home, that honour 
From Troian men and wives of Troy in rightful flames may shrive me." 

To him Achilles fleet of foot with scowling glance responded : 
" Seek not, O dog, my knees to touch, and plead not by my parents. 345 
Oh that, for all thy outrages, my heart and soul permitted 

To slice raw pieces of thy flesh and down my throat devour them ! 
So is there none, who from thy head may fray the dogs and vultures : 
Not if tenfold and twenty-fold they carry ransom hither, 
Of perfect weight presenting it, and more engage hereafter; 350 
Nor if Dardanid Priam claim thy flesh and bones to balance 

In gifts of gold, yet even so shall not thy queenly mother 

Place on the pallet and bewail Hector, her proper offspring ; 
But dogs and birds foul-ravining shall all thy members mangle." 

Then spake with dying breath to him great motley-helmed Hector: 355 
"Eight true were my forebodings then, nor mightest thou be soften'd 
By prayer : verily thy soul is iron in thy bosom. 

But ponder, lest from wrath of gods I bring thee woe hereafter, 
What time, before the Skaean gates, by aid of bright Apollo, 
The archer Paris thee shall slay, tho' peerless be thy valour." 360 

While thus he spake, the end of death his mouth and voice foreclosed. 
Out of his members flew his soul and reach'd the house of Pluto, 
Mourning its own sad destiny, from youth and manhood parting. 
Divine Achilles to the corpse a word then utter'd further : 

"Die thou: but I shall then to Doom submit me, whensoever 365 
Such is the will of Jupiter and other gods immortal." 

He spake; and from his prostrate foe pull'd out the brazen weapon : 
But, placing it aside, he stript the armour from his shoulders, 
All bloody. Then around him ran Achaia's other children, 

25 



386 THE ILIAD. [book xxii. 

Who, gazing fearfully, admir'd the form and comely stature 370 
Of Hector; nor came any near, but left some stab upon him. 
And thus spake one, with eye that glanc'd upon some other near him : 

"Ye Spirits! softer now in sooth for touch of man to handle 
Is Hector, than when late he wrapt in wasting fire our galleys." 
Thus each man spake, and standing near one after other stabb'd him. 375 
But when Achilles, fleet of foot, had stript the noble armour, 
With winged accents he harangu'd, among the Achaians standing : 

" friends, who of the Argive folk are governours and leaders, 
Sithence the gods have granted us this champion to vanquish, 
Who hath more evils wrought alone, than all his gather'd army ; 380 
Trial behoveth it to make with arms around the city 

And learn what temper doth the foe within his bosom cherish ; 
Whether, on such a loss, they think to quit their lofty fortress, 
Or obstinate abide, altho' no Hector have they longer. 

But, fond heart! why holdest thou within me such discourses ? 385 
Alas! for still Patroclus' corpse beside the galleys lieth, 
Unwept, unburied : ne'er will I forget him, while my spirit 
Amongst the living doth abide, and while my knees support me. 
Ay, if in house of Aides each dead forgetteth other, 

Yet even yonder still will I my comrade dear remember. 390 

But now, the Psean shouting high, youths of Achaia! wend we 
Unto the smoothly hollow ships, and bear this carcase with us. 
Great glory have we earn'd ; for we have godlike Hector vanquish'd, 
To whom the Troians in their town, as to a god, made prayer." 

So spake he, and unseemly deeds on godlike Hector plotted. 395 
He bor'd the gristle of his feet betwixt the heel and ankle, 
And thongs of bullhide thro' them strung : so to the car he bound him, 
Leaving his head to drag : aloft he plac'd the beauteous armour, 
And mounting, flogg'd the steeds, not loth in flying course to speed them. 
As on they dragg'd him, clouds of dust arose ; his locks of purple 401 
xVbroad were scatter'd ; all his head was in the dust betossed, 
Reft of its former gracefulness : but then for extreme outrage 
Jove unto foemen yielded him, in his own native country. 

Thus in the dust was all his head defil'd : meanwhile his mother, 405 
Her child beholding, rent her hair, and toss'd her dainty turban 



book xxii.] THE ILIAD. 387 

Afar, and wail'd aloud : so eke groan'd piteous his father, 

And all around, the city-folk was fill'd with shriek and moaning : 

Such was the general face of woe, as tho' from foot to summit 410 

Brow-rearing Ilium itself did all in ashes smoulder. 

And hardly might the people then withhold the aged mourner, 

Their king, who thro' the Dardan gates would hurry to the foeman ; 

And vilely rolling in the dirt, entreated his own people, 

And singly call'd on every man, his proper name pronouncing: 415 

" friends, refrain : and from the walls permit me in my sorrow 
Alone to issue, and to seek the galleys of Achaia. 

With prayer let me meet this man atrocious, direful worker, 
If haply he my hoary hair, and age, revere and pity. 

For lie too such a father hath, — Peleus, who gat and rear'd him, 420 
A woe to Troians, and to me in chief a mighty mischief : 

So many children nourishing his force from me hath rieved. 

But tho' I grieve, yet not so great for all of them my anguish, 
As is for one, — sharp grief for whom shall drag me down to Pluto, — 425 
Hector ! — Oh would that in my hands his spirit he had yielded ! 
Then we twain parents, — I myself, and his illfated mother, — 
With tears and wailing o'er his corpse would take our fill of sorrow." 

So spake he weeping : after him the citizens moan'd also : 
But to the women Hecuba led off the dirge incessant : 430 

" My child ! and wherefore live I still, with direful anguish smitten 
By thy destruction? thou that wast to Troian men and women 
Within the city, day and night, a mighty boast and profit ! 
Who, as a god, did welcome thee ; for thou to them great glory 435 
Wast, while alive ; but now, alas! do Death and Fate o'erhend thee." 

So spake she weeping : but his wife not yet had heard the tiding 
Of Hector ; for no messenger to her had brought announcement, 

Too true ; how that without the gates her lord to stay persisted : 
But she, withdrawn in a recess of the tall house, was working 440 
A purple tissue, double web, with motley flowers broider'd ; 

And to her dainty-braided maids she call'd within the chambers, 
An ample tripod on the fire to set, whereby should Hector 

Keturning from the battle find water for warm ablution, 
simple! nor discern'd, that far in sooth from all ablution 445 



388 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XXII. 



Grey-ey'd Athene him had slain, beneath Achilles' onset. 
Then heard she shrieks re-echoing and wailings from the tower, 
And dropt upon the ground her mesh ; for fear convuls'd her members ; 
Then did she once again address her dainty-braided handmaids : 

" Come! follow, two of you, behind : I go to learn this matter : 450 
The voice of our revered queen I heard, and in my bosom 
My heart upleapeth to my mouth ; my knees beneath are palsied 
With terror : troth, a mighty woe is near for Priam's children. 
Far from my ear be such a tale ! but grim alarm doth seize me, 
Lest-that divine Achilles now have haply from the city 455 

Cut off bold Hector all alone, and o'er the plain do chase him ; 

So to the noisome bravery, which alway did possess him, 

Might direful end be set : for ne'er in the thick troop abode he, 
But far in front was wont to rush, peerless his might esteeming." 

Thus saying, from the chamber forth she rac'd, in frantic fashion, 460 
With beating heart, and after her did eke the handmaids follow. 
But when unto the troop of men she reach'd, and to the tower, 
Upon the rampart there she stood forth gazing ; and beheld him 
Before the city dragg'd around, behind the speedy coursers, 
Who to Achaia's hollow ships all-unconcern'd did drag him. 465 

A swoon of horror then her eyes in murky night enshrouded : 
Gasping she fell to earth, and dropt afar her shining headdress, 
The braids and ribbons of her tire, and woven net and turban, 
W T hich golden Aphrodite gave, when motley-helmed Hector 470 
Her from Eetion receiv'd and countless dower paid him. 

But round, her female kindred throng'd, and minist'ring beside her, 
Withheld her shatterd spirit's flight. With breath and mind returning, 
She deeply heav'd a moan,and spake among the Troian women : 475 

" Hector ! alas ! unhappy me ! one destiny, methinketh, 
Eorth brought us both; thee here in Troy, within the halls of Priam, 



And me in sacred Thebe's wall, 
In chambers of Eetion ; 
Unhappy father, hapless child : 
But now to Aides' abode, 
Thou goest, and desertest me 



beneath the woody Placus, 
who nurtur'd me when little, 
would never had he got me ! 
in Earth's profound recesses, 
a widow in thy chambers 



480 



To hateful mourning : and thy child is still a helpless infant, 



book xxii.] THE ILIAD. 389 

To whom, my Hector! birth we gave, ill-fated! for no profit 485 
Mayest thou be to him, nor he to thee; sith Death hath riev'd thee. 
For even if his life escape Achaia's tearful battles, 

Yet toil and sorrow afterward never will fail to hunt him ; 

For, all thy acres broad and fair will others from him ravish. 
Upon the day of orphanhood a boy his equals loseth : 490 

His eyes dejected close their lids ; his cheeks with tears are flooded ; 
And indigent returneth he unto his father's comrades. 

One then he pulleth by the cloak, another by the tunic. 
Then one, from those who pity him, awhile a cup. forth holdeth, 
Which barely moisteneth his lips, but wetteth not his palate. 495 
The boy with double parent blest him from the banquet driveth, 
With blows of fist bemauling him, and chiding with reproaches : 
' Off to ill luck with this ! for not with us thy father feasteth.' 
Then weeping, back the boy doth wend unto his widow'd mother. — 
Astyanax, who heretofore on knees of his own father 500 

Did only upon marrow feed and tender fat of wethers ; — 

And when thro' weariness of sport slumber might steal across him, 
Then he upon a couch would sleep, within his nurse's bosom, 
Or downy pillows, when his heart with daintiness was filled : — 
But henceforth will he suffer much, bereft of his dear father, 505 

He, whom the Troians have call'd Astyanax by surname, 
For-that thou only diddest guard our gates and long defences. 
Now from thy parents far apart, beside the crested galleys, 
When that the dogs have ta'en their fill, the crooked worms shall eat thee, 
All-naked. Yet are garments here within thy chambers stored, 510 
Fine-spun alike and graceful, wrought by women's handy cunning. 
But verily in wasting fire I throughly will destroy them : 

For, sav'd, they useless are to thee, sith not in them thou liest ; 
But, burn'd, they honour thee, insight of Troian men and women." 
So spake she weeping : after her with moans the women answer'd. 



390 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 



BOOK XXIII. 

ho they with moan incessant fill'd the city : but the Achaians 
When to their galleys they had reach 5 d and to the sea of Helle, 
Partly were scatter'd on the strand, each to his proper galley ; 
Only the bands of Myrmidons Achilles kept assembled, 
And from his bosom spake a word to his war-loving comrades : 5 

" charioteering Myrmidons, my own beloved comrades ! 
Loose we not yet beneath the cars the single-hoofed horses ; 
But with our chariots and steeds near to his body coming, 
Tor slain Patroclus pour the tear, which is the dead man's honour. 
But after, when with deadly wail we have our sorrow sated, 10 

Then let our steeds unharness'd be, and meet ye here for supper." 

He spake ; and they in company did moan : Achilles led them. 
Three times around the corpse they drave the glossy-coated horses, 
And wept amain ; for Thetis rous'd the love of wail within them. 
With tears the very sands were wet, with tears their martial armour ; 15 
Sith they for such a hero mourn'd, such counsellor of terror. 
To them did Peleus' son lead off the dirge of ceaseless sorrow, 
Casting his hero-slaying hands around his comrade's bosom : 

" E'en in the courts of Aides, all hail from me, Patroclus ! 
Now shall I everything fulfil, which erst to thee I plighted, — 

Hither to drag, and raw to dogs deal forth, the corpse of Hector ; 
And that before thy pile would I, by loss of thee embitter'd, 
Sever twelve heads of living men, bright children of the Troians." 

So spake he, and unseemly deeds on godlike Hector plotted, 
Stretching him prostrate in the dust beside Patroclus' pallet. 25 

The others, each did lay aside his brazen armour sparkling, 

And loos'd the lofty-neighing steeds; then countless, by the galley 
Of swift iEacides sat down, for the heart-soothing banquet, 

Patroclus' funeral repast, dealt forth to all his comrades. 

Then sprawled many a sprightly bull along the edge of iron, 30 

30. Iron. Elsewhere the Homeric knives are brass. Possibly it should rather 
be translated, "around the spit of iron." 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 391 

In slaughter ; many a bleating goat, and many a fatted wether, 

And many an ivory-tusked boar, luxuriant in fatness, 

Huge scorching carcases, were stretch'd across the flame of Vulcan ; 

The blood from all sides, caught in cups, around the dead was streaming. 

Meanwhile, the master of the feast, Peleus' swift-footed offspring, 35 

Him did Achaia's chieftains lead to godlike Agamemnon, 

Hardly persuading his stern heart, embitter'd for his comrade. 

But when at Agamemnon's tent, conducting him, they enter'd, 

Then instantly commanded they the clear-intoning heralds, 

An ample tripod on the fire to set, in hope that quickly 40 

Pelides from his skin would wash the gory stains of battle. 

But firmly he refusal spake, and sware an oath upon it : 

" Nay, not by Jupiter, who is of gods the Best and Highest : 
Water of washing, none to come near to this head behoveth, 
Before that I Patroclus lay in fire, and raise a barrow, 45 

And shear my tresses : sith again never so fierce an anguish 
Into my heart shall pierce, while I among the living count me. 
Now to this melancholy feast surrender is befitting : 

But Agamemnon ! prince of men ! command thou in the morning 
Firewood to bring ; and all things else afford thou, which 'tis seemly 50 
For a dead man to carry down beneath the murky darkness : 
Whereby more quickly Mm indeed the unweary fire shall swallow 
Out of our sight, and eke the folk to their own works betake them." 

He spake ; and they all zealously did listen and obey him. 
Thereat, when each with busy skill his supper had prepared, 55 

They banqueted ; nor did their soul lack well-proportioned banquet. 
But when desire importunate of food and drink was ended, 

The others to their proper tents, to take their rest, departed ; 
But Peleus' son upon the strand of much-brawling water 
Lay mid a troop of Myrmidons, still toss'd with heavy sorrow, 60 
On a clear space, whereat the waves against the banks were washing ; 
When slumber seiz'd him, — loosening the strain upon his spirit, — 
Shed balmy round him : for in sooth, with chasing after Hector 
Around the windy Ilium, his gallant limbs were weary. 

Then, hovering, upon him came the soul of sad Patroclus, 65 

Like to the man in everything, in voice and noble eyen 



392 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

And stature ; and around its form like garments did it carry : 
And right above his head it stood, and spake a word complaining : 

"Dost slumber? and entirely hast forgotten me, Achilles? 
No longer live I, but am dead, — I, whom thou disregardest. 70 

To pass the gates of Aides, quick burial desire I. 

There, souls of corpses duly shriv'd, shadows of men departed, 
Repel me, nor beyond the stream to mix with them, allow me : 
But vainly wander I, across Pluto's broad-gated mansion. 

Give me thy hand, — with tears I pray : for never backward wend I 75 
To thy embrace from Aides, when once to flames ye give me. 

Nor surely shall we sit alive, apart from dear companions, 

For canny counsel : but on me, once thy beloved comrade, 
The melancholy doom hath yawn'd, from my first birth predestin'd. 
Yea, and thyself, beneath the wall of noble-hearted Troians, 80 

Achilles ! image of the gods ! thou destin'd art to perish. 

Another word and charge I speak, in hope of thy compliance : 
When burn'd I am, place not my bones apart from thine, Achilles ! 
But, as together we were rear'd within thy father's mansion, — 
When to your country and your house Menoetius from Opus 85 

Carried me, still a boy, in flight thro' melancholy slaughter, 
(For that, enrag'd about the dice, T slew a boyish playmate, 
Son of Amphidamas, nor meant such deed in childish folly ;) 
Then, in his home receiving me, did charioteering Peleus 
Rear me with gentle tenderness and name me thy attendant : — 90 
So let a single coffer hold the bones of both together, 

The golden double-handled urn, gift of thy queenly mother." 

But him Achilles, fleet of foot, reciprocal accosted : 
" Wherefore, thou dear familiar ! art hither come before me? 
Why are such charges needed now ? but I, as thou commandest, 95 
Will straitly everything fulfil, and duteous obey thee. 

But come, and nearer draw to me : by mutual embraces 
And deadly wailings let us now a moment sate our sorrow." 

This having said, with loving hands he stretch'd him to Patroclus, 
But fail'd to catch him: for the soul, like smoke, to realms infernal 100 
Shrieking departed. Starting up in quick surprize Achilles 
His hands together clapt, and straight spake piteous, replying : 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 393 

"Ye Spirits ! then within the courts of Aides resideth 
A soul and image, yet within wanting is sense entirely. 

Tor o'er me stood with tearful wail the soul of sad Patroclus 105 

All night, and special biddings gave, and was divinely like him." 

So spake he, and in all of them awoke the love of sorrow. 
And they still pitiful did weep, when rosy-finger'd Morning 
Shone over them, around the dead: but royal Agamemnon 110 

Summon'd from all Achaia's tents both men and mules, to carry 
Wood for Patroclus' pile. Thereat arose a noble hero, 
Meriones, the squire who serv'd Idomeneus kind-hearted ; 
And forth they wended : but their hands bare timber-hewing axes 
And chains firm-plaited; and in front the mules in order marched. 115 
Up steep and down, sidewise and slant, thro' many a path they hied them. 
But when the buttresses they reach'd of rillbestreamed Ida, 
Straightway with lengthy edge of brass, urgent, they chopt asunder 
The stems of lofty leaf-hair'd oaks; the which with mighty echo 
Fell crashing. These the Achaians thereat did split asunder, 120 

And bound upon the mules. But these with steps the ground outmea- 
Plodding thro' many a coppice thick, to reach the flat dale eager, [sur'd, 
And every timber-hewer eke bare faggots ; (so commanded 

Meriones, the squire who serv'd Idomeneus kind-hearted ;) 
And there in order on the shore pil'd them, where for Patroclus 125 
And for himself Achilles plann'd a great sepulchral barrow. 

But when they had on all sides cast faggots in heaps uncounted, 
Sitting they on the spot abode assembled : but Achilles 
To the warloving Myrmidons straightway made urgent bidding, 

That each beneath the chariot should yoke his steeds, and gird him 

In brazen armour. Quick they rose, in martial trim accoutred, 131 
And on the cars the charioteers and warriours beside them 
Mounted: in front the horsemen went; a cloud of footmen folio w'd, 
Innumerous ; and in the midst his comrades bare Patroclus. 
Then sheared they their locks of hair, and on the carcase strew'd them 
Eight thickly: godlike Achileus the head behind supported, 136 
Moaning ; for he to Pluto's realm his blameless friend was bearing. 

But, at the spot arriv'd, whereof Achilles gave them notice, 
Besting the corpse, they quickly heap'd a pile to soothe his spirit. 



394 THE ILIAD. [book xxiit. 

Then did the moody chieftain's heart one other thought imagine. 140 
For, standing from the pile aloof, he shear' d his auburn tresses, 
Which for Spercheius' sacred flood luxuriant he nurtur'd ; 
Then, gazing on the purple deep, indignant he exclaimed : 

"Spercheius! vainly then to thee my father Peleus vowed, 
That 1, when thither safe return'd to my dear native country, 145 
A sacred hecatomb would serve, and shear to thee my tresses, 
And fifty rams would consecrate, beside thy very sources, 
Whereat a choice domain thou hast and incense-breathing altar. 
So vow'dthe aged man: but thou his notion hast not complish'd. 
But now, sith homeward wend not I to my dear native country, 150 
Grant me, my locks to yield as gift in meed of brave Patroclus." 

He spake, and plac'd into the hand of his beloved comrade 
The tresses ; and in all the troop awoke the love of sorrow. 
Then on their wailing and lament had come the shades of sunset, 
But that Achilles sudden spake, by Agamemnon standing: 155 

"Atrides ! (for to thy command, in chief, the Achaian people 
Doth hearken,) whilom may there be even a glut of wailing. 
Now from the burning pile aloof disperse them, with commandment 
To care for dinner : we, to whom the dead in chief belongeth, 
Will busy us hereon : with us let also captains tarry." 160 

But Agamemnon, prince of men, unto his counsel hearken'd, 
And to their even-balanc'd ships instant dispers'd the people ; 
But the chief mourners there abode behind, and heap'd the faggots. 
The pile, this way and that, they fram'd, a hundred feet of firewood, 
And on the very summit plac'd the corpse, distraught with anguish. 
Many fat sheep and clumsyfooted crumplehorned cattle 166 

With due observance flayed they ; and mighty-soul'd Achilles 
Took out from all of them the fat, wherewith the corpse he cover'd 
From head to ankle, piling round the victims newly flayed. 
On them he rested bulging jars of unguent and of honey, 170 

Tilted toward the pallet : next four lofty-crested horses 
He earnest added to the pile, and heav'd with mighty sorrow. 

Nine dogs as favourites were fed beneath the master's table : 
Eke two of these into the flames he cast, with necks dissever'd, 
And after them, twelve gallant sons of mighty-hearted Troians, 175 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 395 

Whom he by brazen edge laid low, a dire achievement plotting : 
So to the iron heart of fire he yielded them as fodder. 

Thereafter, groaning, panted he, and nam'd his dear companion : 

"E'en in the courts of Aides all hail from me, Patroclus ! 
Now shall I everything fulfil, which erst to thee I plighted. 180 

Lo ! in the fire twelve gallant sons of mighty-hearted Troians 
With thee together swallow'd are ; but Hector son of Priam 
Not for the fire's devouring jaws, but for the dogs reserve I." 

So threaten'd he : yet not the dogs around the chief were busy ; 
But, watching near him day and night, Jove's daughter Aphrodite 185 
Frayed the dogs away, and him with rosy oil anointed, 
Ambrosial ; nor troth ! endur'd that any drag and rend him ; 
And bright Apollo over him a cloud of blue extended 

From heaven to the plain below, the spot entire enshrouding, 
Whereon repos'd the carcase; lest the sun with force pervading 190 
The hero's body parch away with sinews and with members. 

Yet still did not the flames consume the pile of dead Patroclus. 
Then did the moody chieftain's heart one other thought imagine. 
For, standing from the pile aloof, to the two Winds he prayed, 
To Boreas and Zephyrus, and victims fair behighted ; 195 

And from a golden goblet eke he pour'd libations many, 

Imploring, that in speed they come, the corpse with fire to kindle, 
And that the fuel haste to catch. Then, his petitions hearing, 
Hied to the Winds as messenger the swift-descending Iris. 
But they, assembled in the halls of fiercely blaring Zephyr, 200 

Feasted in banquet : thereupon, Iris shot in among them, 
And on the marble threshold stood. They, when their eyes beheld her, 
All started on their feet, and each her to his throne invited. 
But to be seated she refus'd, and spake her word before them : 

" No seat for me : hence wend I forth unto the streams of Ocean 
To the far land of iEthiops, where hecatombs they offer 206 

Unto the immortals : eke would I upon the victims banquet. 
But Achileus to Boreas and shrilly-rustling Zephyr 

Maketh entreaty that ye come, and victims fair behighteth, 
If that ye hurry to consume the pile, whereon is lifted 210 

Patroclus, after whom the heart of all Achaia heaveth." 



396 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

Such message spoken, parted she : they with almighty clamour 
Uprose asudden, hurtling on the stormy clouds before them. 

Over the deep free course they found to blare, and heav'd the surges 
With shrilly -whistling breath: but next to loamy Troas came they, 215 
Falling upon the pile : and dire the name's unearthly hooting. 
Then fiercely pufiing all night long fann'd they the fire together ; 
And swift Achilles, all that night, with goblet doubly hollow 
Out of a golden bowl did teem the sacred wine, and wetted 220 
The earth around him, calling aye the soul of sad Patroclus. 
As, when a bridegroom's sudden fate may grieve his wretched parents, 
The father, who his bones must burn, outmoaneth heart-bestricken ; 
So then Achilles, who the bones of his companion burned, 
Pacing beside the pile, bemoan'd, with sigh incessant heaving. 225 
But when, announcing light on earth, the star of day proceeded, 
Whom shortly saffron-vested Dawn tinging the sea doth follow ; 
Then droop'd the blazing of the pile and all its splendour faded. 
The Winds upon their courses hied unto their homes returning 
Over the sea of Thrace : but it with roaring billow raved. 230 

But Peleus' son on other side asunder from the burning 
Eeclin'd all-weary : quickly there sweet slumber stole across him. 
Meanwhile the chieftains were in troop around Atrides gather'd, 
And as toward him these advanc'd, their clank and hubbub woke him. 
So, raising him, upright he sat and spake his word before them : 

" son of Atreus, and the rest, chieftains of Panachaia, 236 

First, wheresoe'er along the pile the flame abideth, quench ye 
With sparkling wine its force, throughout : thereafter let us gather 
The bones of Mencetiades Patroclus, — well discerning. 

(And easy is discernment : sith in the mid pile we plac'd him : 240 
Apart, promiscuous, the rest were burnt, both men and horses.) 

Them in two folds of fat will I within a golden flagcn 
Keep, until I myself in turn hide in the courts of Pluto. 

Meanwhile no overweening mound to heap aloft exhort I, 245 

But suited ; — such the height : and ye, Achaians, will hereafter 
A broad and lofty barrow rear, whoso, when I am perish'd, 
Survivors may behind be left on many-benched galleys." 

So spake Pelides fleet of foot, and they compliant hearken'd. 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 397 

First, wheresoe'er along the pile the flame abode, they quenched 250 
With sparkling wine its force, throughout ; and heavy fell the ashes. 
Then into double folds of fat within a golden flagon 

The white bones of the kindly chief with tears they duly gather'd, 
And stor'd them in Achilles' tents, and veil'd with flimsy linen ; 
And fram'd a circle for the tomb, and laid in front foundations 255 
Around the pile itself. Thereon fresh earth they heaped urgent, 
And when the tomb was all embank'd, departed. — But Achilles, 
Seating in ample theatre, arranged the crowded people, 

And from his galleys bare to view the prizes of the contest, 
Cauldrons and tripods, steeds and mules, and bulls with valiant forehead, 
And iron's rigid hoariness, and dapper-girdled women. 261 

First for the speedy charioteers propos'd he brilliant prizes. 
The foremost victor should receive a woman taught discreetly 
In blameless work, and tripod ear'd, of two-and-twenty measures. 
" The next, an untam'd six-year mare, a mule within her bearing. 265 
For the third driver, in the midst he plac'd a beauteous cauldron, 
Four measures holding, new to fire, all in its pristine whiteness. 
For him whose coursers fourth might be, he set two golden talents ; 
But for the fifth a double urn, new to the fire, he destin'd. 270 
Upright then stood he forth, and spake his word before the Argives : 

" O son of Atreus, and the rest of dapper-greav'd Achaians ! 
Such prizes lie in theatre, the charioteers awaiting. 

Now if the Achaians contest held in other hero's honour, 
Myself the chiefest prize, I trow, unto my tent would carry; 275 
For surely know ye, how by far my steeds surpass in goodness. 
For they immortal are : of yore landshaking Neptune gave them 
Unto my father Peleus : he in turn to me vouchsaf'd them. 

But doubtless I aloof shall stay with single-hoofed horses : 
So noble was the charioteer whose loss they yet are mourning, 

A lord so kindly, who full oft with streams of cleanly water 281 

Did bathe their manes, unsparingly with liquid oil anointing. 
The twain immoveable abide, and weep : the ground supporteth 

Their heav'nly manes: so stand they there, with hearts byanguish stricken. 
But ye, the others of the host, stand forth, whoso of Argives 285 

Trusteth the goodness of his steeds and chariots well-joined." 



398 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

So spake Pelides : at the word swift charioteers stept forward. 
Of them Eumelus, prince of men, uprose by far the foremost, 
Admetus' darling offspring, who in horsemanship was signal. 
After him rose the son of Tydeus, stalwart Diomedes, 290 

Who led beneath the yoke the steeds of Tros, which from iEneias 
He late had taken, tho ; their lord was by Apollo rescued. 
After him, Atreus' Joveborn son, the auburn Menelaiis, 
Stept forward : he beneath the yoke led nimblefooted coursers, 
Spryfoot and Blazer, horse and mare : the mare was Agamemnon's ; 295 
Which Echepolus paid as gift to royal Agamemnon, 

Exemption buying from the war, that there he might disport him, 
Nor sail for windy Ilium : for he, Anchises 5 offspring, 

Great riches held from Jove, and dwelt in Sikyon broad-acred. 
Her, keen persistent in the course, then Menelaiis harness'd. 300 

Fourth did Antilochus array the dapper-coated horses, 

Antilochus, the brilliant child of a highminded father, 

Their master Nestor, Neleus' son ; whose nimblefooted horses, 
At Pylos nurtur'd, drew the car. His father, near him standing, 
Wisely advis'd to good the youth, himself already wary : 305 

"Antilochus! thee verily have Jove and Neptune loved, 

Albeit young thou art, and thee in horsemanships instructed 
Of every fashion : therefore thou no great monition needest. 
Well knowest thou around the goal to wind : natheless thy coursers 
Are slowest in the race: whence eke, I deem, may come disaster. 310 
But of the rest the steeds in sooth are quicker ; yet the drivers 
Know not more fully than thyself to deal in sage devices. 
But come, dear fellow! in thy heart cast every form of counsel 
Right crafty, lest from out thy hand the prizes slip asudden. 
Ear more by counsel than by strength the timberhewer winneth. 315 
By counsel and by might of mind doth eke the pilot safely 
Over the purple waters guide his tempestshaken galley. 

Counsel doth also charioteer from charioteer distinguish. 

But whoso, on his nimble steeds and chariot relying, 
Hither and thither, illadvis'd, in lengthen'd courses windeth, 320 

His coursers wide extravagant are spent, nor aught prevails he. 

But whoso worser steeds may drive, yet gainful arts upholdeth, 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 399 

With eyen fasten'd on the goal wheeleth right close, nor ever 
Forgetteth, when he earliest the thong of ox should tighten ; 

But holdeth steadily his place, and for his victor lurketh. 325 

A mark, right easy to discern, behold: thou shalt not miss it. 

A fathom high above the earth a harden'd block of timber 
Standeth, — a trunk of oak or pine, which rotteth not by showers ; 
And near it, two white slabs of stone on either side are planted 
Just in the narrows of the road ; but smooth the course is round them. 
This hath divine Achilles made the racers' goal : and haply 331 
Such was it eke of yore, or mark'd where some dead man was buried. 
Eight close to this approaching, drive thy chariot and horses. 
In the welljoined car thyself must left wise gently lean thee, 335 

And to the right steed yield the reins, and freely lash and urge him. 
But let the courser on the left so swerve toward the pillar, 

That, troth! the centre of thy wheel may doubt to graze the surface 
Of the rough stone. Shun thou to prove its perilous encounter, 340 
Lest-that the chariot it break, and wound withal thy horses. 

Disgrace unto thyself were this, and triumph to thy rivals. 
But keen, my son ! and wary be : for if, inside the others, 
Thou round the goal, not one of them pursuing shall o'erhend thee ; 345 
Not even if behind thy heels he drave divine Areion, 

Adrastus' nimblefooted horse, which was a brood of heaven, 

Or the proud steeds of Tros, which here of all are noblest reared." 

After such words, back to his seat return'd Neleian Nestor, 
When charges to his proper son he had especial given. 350 

But fifth did Merion array the dapper-coated horses. 

Then mounted they the chariots and cast their lots together. 
Achilles shook them : Nestor's son gain'd the first lot for starting. 
Royal Eumelus after him receiv'd his post as second. 

After him, third, was Atreus' son, spear-famous Menelaiis : 355 

Next after him Meriones was rang'd : but last Tydides, 

Himself by far the chiefest, came, to drive his horses hindmost. 
When thus in row drawn up they stood, Achilles mark'd the limits, 
In the wide level seen afar; and station'd godlike Phoenix, 360 

His father's minister, as watch and teller of the contest. [them 
Then rais'd they all their scourges high and lash'd the steeds, and urg'd 



400 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

With eager menace : speedily the breadth of plain travers'd they, 

Far from the galleys ; but the dust beneath their breasts uplifted 365 

Stood as a cloud, or like a squall ; and from the horses' shoulders 

Along the breezes wav'd the manes : the cars, at one while vanish'd, 

Sunk in the manyfeeding earth ; elsewhile aloft they bounded. 

Up stood the drivers from their seats, with hearts for conquest panting : 

Each shouted to his steeds, and they in dusty tempest scuffled. 371 

But when, fulfilling their career, the coursers fleetly scudding 

Back to the hoary brine would come, then were the odds apparent 

And worth of each; for hard was stretch'd the race forthwith: and quickly 

The rapid mares of Pheres' stud foremost of all outstarted. 376 

Behind, the stallions of Tros by Diomed were driven 

So near, they alvvay seem'd as tho' they on the car would mount them. 

Eumelus' back and shoulders broad were warm beneath their panting 

For aye against him lay their heads, as close behind they gallop'd. 381 

And now they haply would have pass'd, or doubtful left the contest, 

But bright Apollo, wroth of old against the son of Tydeus, 

Struck from his hands the shining scourge: then tears from out his eyen 

Fell in his anger, when the mares onward and onward winning 386 

He saw ; while, of the lash bereft, his own career was damag'd. 

Nor did Athene fail to mark Apollo's fraudful dealing 

Against Tydides : quickly she the people's shepherd chased, 

And gave him back the scourge, and breath' d into his horses vigour ; 390 

Then, wrathful with Admetus' son, pursued, and brake asunder 

His yoke : down fell the pole : the steeds this way and that were parted. 

Out of the chariot himself beside the wheel was rolled 

On to his elbow : nostrils, mouth, forehead, and brow were mangled, 

His eyen were with tears brimful, his throat was drain'd of juices. 396 

Then past him Tydeus' son held on the singlehoofed horses, 

Beyond the others far ahead forth springing : for Athene 

Into his horses vigour breath'd, and on himself put glory. 400 

After him kept the son of Atreus, auburn Menelaiis. 

Then did Antilochus rebuke the horses of his father : 
" Step on, ye also ; strain to speed. I claim not, that the coursers 
Of Tydeus' skilfulhearted son ye vanquish; sith Athene 405 

376. Pheres was father of Admetus and grandfather of Eumelus. 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 401 

To them hath swiftness granted now, and on himself put glory. 

But overhend Atrides' steeds and be not left behind them, 

Quickly; lest in disgrace ye sink, if Blazer, — she, a female, — 

Outstrip you in the race. And why fall ye behind, my bravest ? 

For roundly will I say, — and this shall be a fact accomplished : 410 

No longer shall ye twain receive grooming and food with Nestor 

The people's shepherd: he forthwith by the sharp brass will slay you, 

If by your heartlessness a prize inferiour we carry. 

But keep ye pace and follow hard and scud with extreme effort : 

And I myself will machinate and will espy to complish, 415 

If in the narrows of the road I find a place to pass him." 

So spake he earnest : they beneath their lord's upbraidment quailing, 
Ean swifter on, awhile ; but soon Antilochus war-biding 
Saw, where the road was rent away and hollow 'd by a torrent, 420 
Whose pent-up waters sapp'd the ground and narrow left the passage : 
Hereby did Menelaiis drive, concourse of wheels avoiding. 

But devious his rival held the singlehoofed horses, 

Pressing by shorter cut oblique to meet within the narrows. 
Then to Antilochus aloud Atrides cried in terror : 425 

" Antilochus ! infatuate thy course : hold-in thy horses, 

While narrow is the road; and soon, where it is broader, pass me; 
Lest on the chariot thou strike and bring on both disaster." 

So spake he ; but Antilochus drave nearer still and nearer, 
Urging the horses with the scourge, alike as tho' he heard not. 430 

Then, far as may a youthful man, his stalwart vigour trying, 
Over his shoulder fling the quoit, so far they onward hurried. 
But Atreus' son in mid career refrain'd his speed on purpose, 

Lest that the singlehoofed steeds within the road be tangled, 435 
And overturn the chariots welljoined : so the drivers 

Would in the dust themselves be cast, for victory too eager. 
Then auburn Menelaiis spake a word of bitter chiding : 

" Antilochus ! of all mankind none is than thee more deadly. 
Avaunt to ruin! falsely do the Achaians hold thee prudent. 440 

But I will challenge thee to oath, and of the prize despoil thee." 

After such words, with cheery voice he to the coursers shouted : 
424. I express what I suppose to be the poet's meaning. 

26 



402 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

"Stay not behind, nor wait to think, albeit griev'd, my gallants ! 

To them far earlier, I trow, will feet and knees be weary, 444 

Than unto you : for from them both the strength of youth is parted." 

So spake he earnest: they beneath their lord's upbraidment quailing, 
Ban swifter on, and speedily came nearer, and yet nearer. 

Meanwhile in theatre behind abode the Argives, watching 
The coursers, who across the plain in dusty tempest scuffled. 
The Cretan chief Idomeneus did first espy the horses; 450 

For he beyond the company to scan around sat forward, 

And heard the charioteer afar, and knew his loud upbraidment, 

And saw a signal horse in front, who else was bay of colour, 
But bare a white spot, like a moon, upon his forehead blazing. 455 
Then stood Idomeneus upright, and spake before the Argives : 

"0 friends, who of the Argive folk are governours and leaders, 
Do I alone the coursers view, or eke do ye descry them ? 

Another pair of steeds than erst, methinketh, now are foremost; 
Ay; and another charioteer appeareth : but the others 460 

I ween, met damage on the plain, which thitherward had vantage. 
Surely ahead I saw the mares around the pillar bending : 

But them I nowhere now may ken, albeit that my eyen 
Turn, as I gaze, on every side over the plain of Troas. 

Either the charioteer his reins hath dropt, or round the pillar 465 

Could not his coursers duly hold and fail'd to wheel discreetly. 
There (bodel) forth he fell, and brake his chariot's equipments, 
And from the road his mares, possest by untam'd spirit, started. 
But ye, arising, eke yourselves behold ; for not distinctly 
My eyen may beknow : yet here, methinketh, is a hero 470 

iEtolian of birth, who yet mid Argive princes reigneth, 

The courser-taming Tydeus' son, stouthearted Diomedes." 

Then Ajax swift, Oileus' son, with insult base revil'd him : 
" Idomeneus! wherefore too soon dost bluster? o'er the level 
Hither the nimblefooted mares speed far afront of others. 475 

Among the Argives thou, I ween, art not so much the youngest, 
Nor peer thy eyen from thy head the keenest in the army ; 
But thou with words of bluster aye dost prate : and wherefore need we 
Thy endless prating? here around are many talkers abler. 



book xxiil] THE ILIAD. 403 

Still the same coursers hold the lead, which at the turn were foremost, 
Eumelus' mares, and in the car himself the ribbons holdeth." 481 

To him with anger, front to front, the Cretan leader answer'd : 
" Ajax, ill-deviser, skill'd in jibes ; beneath the Argives 

In all beside thou fallest, sith ungracious is thy temper. 

Come ! for a wager stake we now a tripod or a cauldron, 485 

And let us both as umpire take Atrides Agamemnon, 
Which steeds are foremost: soshaltthou discover by repayment." 

So spake he : but Oileus' son, swift Ajax, rose asudden 
In anger, ready to retort with words of fierce contention. 

And now had haply farther gone the strife betwixt the chieftains, 490 
But that Achilles' self arose and spake a word before them : 

"No longer with reproachful words of fierce contention answer, 
O Ajax and Idomeneus : nor, troth, is it beseeming : 

Yea, with another were ye wroth, who should such deeds adventure. 
But ye in theatre abide to watch the steeds' careering. 495 

Soon will they hither come themselves, with rivalry excited ; [cond." 
Then each the coursers shall beknow, — which first, and which are se- 

He spake: but Tydeus' son drew near, right urgent : on the shoulder 
He alway lash'd the steeds: but they tossing aloft accomplish'd 500 
Their speedy course: the charioteer with daubs of dust was powder'd; 
And, as instinct, the chariot with gold and tin bedizen'd 

Follow'd the nimble-footed steeds: and scarce a track behind them 
In the thin dust the wheel had left; so flew they o'er the champaign. 505 
He in mid company drew up ; and from the horses trickled 

Abundant sweat down to the ground, from crests and flanks and bosom. 
Then from the shining chariot himself to earth outspringing 

Hanged upon the yoke his scourge. Without delay, on instant 510 

The valiant Sthenelus stept up, and seiz'd the prize behoten, 
And to his comrades high of heart handed the skilful woman 
And eared tripod, for their lord : but he the steeds unharness'd. 
Next did Antilochus arrive, Neleian horses driving, 

Who Menelaiis had by craft outstript, but not by swiftness : 515 

Yet even so with nimble steeds clung Menelas behind him. 
As wheel is parted from the horse, who on the champaign straining 
Draweth his master with the car ; whose outmost tailhair brusheth 



404 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

The running tire : (no mighty space, however far he gallop :) 520 

So far by Nestor's spotless son was Menelaiis distanc'd ; 

So far alone : yet was he once a full quoit-throw to rearward. 

Yet quickly won he back the loss ; for more and more the vigour 

Wax'd brave in Agamemnon's mare, the glossy-coated Blazer. 525 

And if for both the chariots the race had farther lasted, 

Pull surely had she overpast, nor doubtful left the contest. 

Fourth came the bonny Merion, Idomeneus' attendant, 

Who a spearthrow was left behind high-honour'd Menelaiis : 

For slowest were of all the field his glossy-coated horses, 530 

And, as a charioteer, himself upon the lists was weakest. 

Latest of all, with long delay arriv'd Admetus' offspring, 

Dragging the beauteous chariot, from far his coursers driving. 

Godlike Achilles, fleet of foot, beheld the chief with pity, 

And to the Argives standing forth harangu'd in winged accents : 535 

"A noblest hero driveth last his single-hoofed horses. 
But come ye ; upon him a prize bestow we, as is seemly, 
In second rank : but Tydeus' son must with the first be honour'd." 

So spake he: then the chieftains all unto his word assented. 
And now had he the mare on him bestow'd; (for so the Achaians 540 
Appro v'd :) but that Antilochus, greathearted Nestor's offspring, 
Arose, and challeng'd to account Achilles, son of Peleus : 

"Achilles! troth, shall I with thee be wrathful, if thou complish 
This word : for of my proper prize thou thinkest to despoil me, 
In pity, that his speedy mares and chariot were crippled 545 

And that himself is worthy : yet his duty was, to offer 
Yows to th' immortals; never then had he been thrown to rearmost. 
Pity and love to gratify, thy tents have gold in plenty, 

And brass and sheep and servant-maids and single-hoofed horses : 550 
Of these thou mayest afterward take greater prize to give him, 
Or even now before us : so the Achaians shall approve thee. 

But I to none will yield the mare : whoever would pretensions 
To her adventure, must with me prepare to enter combat." 

So vaunted he, and drew a smile from Achileus swiftfooted, 555 

Delighting in Antilochus, who was his dear companion. 

Thereat reciprocal to him he winged accents utter'd : 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 405 

" Antilochus ! if verily thou biddest to Eumelus 

Fresh prize from out my stores to give, this also will I complish : 
A corslet I on him bestow, which from Asteropseus 560 

I took : of brass the substance is, but wreath'd around the margin 
Are streams of shining tin; and this a goodly price would yield him." 

He spake, and to Automedon, his comrade dear, gave order 
To bear it from his tent : but he quickly return 5 d, and brought it, 
And plac'd it in Eumelus' hands ; and he with joy receiv'd it. 565 

But Menelaiis, sore at heart, hereon stood forth among them, 
In wrath against Antilochus unmeasur'd : but a herald 

Into his hand a sceptre plac'd, and challeng'd all the Argives 
To silence : then the godlike man spake out his heart before them : 

" Antilochus ! who heretofore wast sage; what now hath ail'd thee? 
Loss to my coursers hast thou wrought, and to my skill dishonour, 571 
Thrusting thy horses to the front, which were by far the worser. 
But come now! ye who leaders are and governours to Argos, 
Pass ye a sentence in the midst for both, with even fairness ; 
Lest that hereafter haply one of brazen-clad Achaians 5 75 

Say, — Menelaiis did by lies Antilochus o'erpower, 

And carried off the mare, altho' his steeds were far the worser, 
Only that he himself in might and majesty was grander. 

Or else, — come! I my self will judge; nor do I ween that any 
Of Danai will this reprove ; for fair shall be my trial. 580 

Antilochus ! Jove-nurtur'd ! hark! as seemly is and rightful, 
Stand thou before the chariot and coursers : hold beside thee 

The lash wherewith thou dravest : touch the steeds, and swear by Neptune 
Landshaking, that thou diddest not by guile my car entangle." 585 

But him did sage Antilochus confronting gently answer : 
"No more of this; for, troth, am I than thee, prince Menelaiis 1 
Younger by far, and thou than me art loftier and braver. 
Well knowest thou, how youthful men in trespasses are tangled ; 
For quicker their perceptions are, but flimsy is their judgment. 590 
Therefore thy heart will bear with me. Also to thee resign I 
The mare, which I had won: and eke if more thou shouldest ask me 
From my own stores to bring, this too at once would I present thee 
Eight willing, rather than with thee, Jove-nurtur'd ! meet displeasure 



406 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

All days, and an offender be before the unseen powers." 595 

So spake greathearted Nestor's son, and led the mare and plac'd her 
In hands of Menelaiis : then his royal heart was melted. 

As in a growing crop of wheat, when all the acres bristle, 
A dew, descending genial, the ears doth warm and soften, 

So, Menelaiis ! then to thee the heart within was soften'd. 600 

Thereat the prince accosting him did winged accents utter : 

" Antilochus ! now unto thee myself will yield my anger : 
For never wast thou heretofore askew, nor airy-witted. 
Youth hath thy mind o'ercome : henceforth shun thou to trick thy betters. 
Other Achaian man mayhap had not so lightly calm'd me. 606 

But troth, much thou endured hast for me, and much hast toiled, 
As thy good sire and brother too ; therefore to thy entreaty 
Will I comply: yea, and the mare, albeit mine, — I yield her : 610 

So shall these learn, that ne'er my heart was stern and overweening." 

He spake; and to Noemon's hands, Antilochus' companion, 
Gave up the mare, and took himself the all-resplendent cauldron. 
And Merion, who fourth drave in, gat the two golden talents. 
But the fifth prize, which still was left, the double urn ; — to Nestor 615 
Achilles thro' the Argive throng bare it, and spake beside him : 

" Here now ! let this to thee also, old friend ! be made a keepsake 
For record of Patroclus' grave : for never among Argives 
Himself shalt thou again behold. And hark ! this prize I give thee 
Gratis ! for neither race of foot nor darting wilt thou enter, 621 
Wrestling, nor boxing: for on thee stern Eld already presseth." 

He spake, and plac'd it in his hands ; and he with joy receiv'd it, 
And unto him reciprocal harangu'd in winged accents : 625 

" Ay, verily; all this, my child! discreetly hast thou spoken. 
Eor friend ! their earl}'' hardihood hath fail'd my limbs : no longer 
The feet rush agile, nor the hands on either side my shoulders. 
O that I still were so in youth, and unimpair'd my vigour, 
As when the Epeians did of yore king Amarynkeus bury, 630 

And in Buprasium his sons set forth the royal prizes. 

Then no one might with me compare, neither among the Epeians 
Or mighty-soul'd iEtolians, nor from my native Pylos. 

Then Clytomedes conquer'd I in boxing, — son of Enops ; 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 407 

To wrestle next Ankseus rose, of Pleuron : him o'erthrew I. 635 

Then Iphiclus, tho' swift he was, yet did my feet outrun him, 

And with the spear I overpitch'd Phyleus and Polydorus. 

Only the sons of Actor then outdrave me with their horses, 

Who two to one against me were, on fire with zeal of conquest, 

Sith as the noblest prizes yet the charioteers awaited. 640 

Twin bretheren were these: and one did ever hold the bridles, 

The bridles alway mauag'd he, the other scourg'd and shouted. 

Such once was I: but now in turn let younger men betake them 

To such achievements : Nestor's head to Eld unkind must bow him : 

'Tis fitting : but in days of old signal was I mid heroes. 645 

Do thou by games of funeral pay honour to thy comrade ; 

And willing I this gift accept ; yea, and my heart is joyful, 

That alway thou my kindly soul well knowest, nor forgettest 

What honour seemly is for me among Achaia's children. 

Eor this, on tliee may heav'nly gods bestow heartsoothing favour." 650 

So spake he : and Pelides hied thro' the thick crowd of Argives, 
When he unto the whole address of Neleus' son had listen'd. 
Then of the painful boxing match did he propose the prizes : 
First, a toilbearing mule, untam'd, — six years its age, — which hardest 
Is to be tam'd, this led he in, and tied, mid full assembly. 655 

Next, to the vanquish'd forth he set a goblet doubly hollow. 
Upright he stood, and spake his word before the assembled Argives : 

"0 sons of Atreus, and the rest of dapper-greav'd Achaians, 
Two men, whoever bravest are, invite we for these prizes, 
Eaising aloft the first, to box: and to whiche'er Apollo 660 

Constant endurance shall vouchsafe in sight of all the Achaians, 
His the toilbearing mule shall be, unto his tent to lead it ; 
But to the vanquish'd I behight the goblet doubly hollow." 

So spake he : then forthwith arose a man both huge and comely 
Epeius, son of Panopeus, of old well skill'd in boxing. 665 

Who touch'd the toilenduring mule, and thus spake forth his challenge: 

" Near let him come, who means to get the goblet doubly hollow : 
But none, I trow, by strength of fist from me the mule shall carry 
Of all Achaians ; sith I boast in boxing to be ablest. 

In battle of the spear and sword I yield : doth that content you? 670 



408 



THE ILIAD. 



[book XXIII. 



Never may man in every work alike, I ween, be skilful. 

For roundly will I warning give of that which I will complish : 

His flesh asunder will I rip, and crush the bones within him. 

Here let his kinsmen wait around, assembled to receive him 

And bear his shatter' d frame away, beneath my onset fallen." 675 

Thus did he threaten: thereupon they all were dumb in silence. 
Alone Euryalus arose, a godlike man, to meet him, 

Whose sire the prince Mekisteus was, and Talaiis his grandsire : 
Who, when in former days at Thebes slain (Edipus was buried, 
Came to the games, and conquer'd there the stoutest of Cadmeians. 680 
And now Tydides spear-renown'd was busy to array him, 
And hearten'd him with words: for much his victory desir'd he. 
A girdle fitted to his loins first handed he ; thereafter 

Presented wellcut thongs of hide stript from a bull fieldroaming. 



So then the two wellgirded came 
And rush'd together in affray, 
Dire was the crackle of their chaps 
Until divine Epeius mark'd 
And rising, smote upon his cheek : 
Eor on the spot his gallant limbs 
As on the weedy beach a fish, 
Outleapeth, if with Boreas 
So with the blow upleaped he : 



amid the ring of gazers, 685 

with sturdy hands uplifted. 

sweat dripp'd from all their members. 

his rival's eyen straying, 

nor long the blow endur'd he ; 690 

sank staggering beneath him. 

by the dark billow cover'd, 

the topmost sea do shudder; 

but mighty-soul' d Epeius 



Eais'd him with both his hands. Around his dear companions crowded, 
Who led him thro' the gazing ring, trailing his feet behind him, 696 
Spitting thick blood between his teeth, his head on one side drooping, 
Half-stunn'd and wandering ; but quick they seated him among them, 



And hasted, to his tent to fetch 

Then to the Danai anew 
For painful wrestling, forward set 
A tripod, on the fire to stand, 
Precious ; and it the Achaians 
The vanquish'd to repay, he set 
In various achievement skill'd : 



the goblet doubly hollow. 

the son of Peleus quickly 700 

a third award of prizes. 

design'd he for the victor, 

did at twelve oxen value : 

a woman in the middle, 

four beeves her price they counted. 



679. The epithet given to (Edipus shows that Homer followed a totally dif- 
ferent tale from that of the Attic tragedians. 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 409 

Upright lie stood, and spake his word before the asssmbled Argives : 

" Arise ! whatever pair may list eke in this game to try them." 
So spake he : instantly arose great Telamonian Ajax, 

And next, a man of cunning deep, Ulysses much-devising. 
Thereat the two well -girded came amid the ring of gazers, 710 

Fronting ; and clasp'd with sturdy hands the elbows, each of other : 
As when, within a lofty house, the force of wind averting, 
A famous artizan may frame twin rafters, crossembracing. 

Their backs in hardy tustle crack'd ; from head to foot sweat trickled, 
And many a wale, blood-purple, ran along their sides and shoulders : 
Yet alway eager still they strain'd, to win the featful tripod. 
Nor might Ulysses, artful, cast unto the ground his rival, 
Nor Ajax; for, all-sinewy, Ulysses aye resisted. 720 

But when at length their struggle pain'd the dapper-greav'd Achaians, 
Then, to Ulysses, challenge spake great Telamonian Ajax : 

" Son of Laertes ! Jove-deriv'd ! Ulysses much-contriving ! 
Let one or other lift his man ; then Jove the rest shall settle." 

He spake, and lifted him : with guile long-practis'd, then Ulysses 725 
Struck him within the knee, behind, and tripp'd and cast him backward. 
And fell upon his breast : thereat the people gaz'd admiring. 
Second, the much-enduring man, Ajax to lift, made effort; 
But barely stirr'd him from the ground; until his knee he twisted, 730 
And both together fell to earth, and were with dust denied. 
Again upspringing from their fall, a third time would they wrestle ; 
But that Achilles' self arose, and by his word withheld them : 

"No longer strain your noble hearts, nor wear yourselves with hardship. 
The victory to both is due : both equal prizes taking, 736 

Ketire ye : so may eke the rest adventure for the prizes." 

Thus spake he : they right-willingly did listen and obey him, 
And wiping off the dust, sat down, clad in their rightful tunics. 

Then for the swift of foot anew Pelides nam'd his prizes. 740 

A bowl of silver featly wrought was first : it held six measures ; 
And for its beauty, all the earth no peer of it could furnish, — 
So gorgeous its workmanship, by men of Sidon labor'd. 

But o'er the hazy breadth of sea Phoenicians had borne it, 



410 THE ILIAD. [book xxiii. 

And lodg'd it safe on Lemnos' shore, a gift to honour Thoas. 745 

As purchase-price for Priam's son Lycaon, did Euneiis, 
Offspring of Jason, yield it up into Patroclus' keeping ; 
And now Achilles set it forth, — a prize, his friend to honour, 

For him, whoso with rapid feet might of the host be nimblest. 
Next, for the second brought he out an ox well-fed and portly ; 750 
But half a talent's weight of gold for the last prize he destin'd. 
Upright he stood, and spake his word among the assembled Argives : 

" Arise, whomever it may list eke in this game to try them." 
So spake he : then Oileus' son, swift Ajax, rose asudden, 
Also Ulysses much-devising : last, the son of Nestor, 755 

Antilochus, who with his feet mid all the youths was signal. 

Eanged abreast they stood : thereat, Achilles mark'd the limits. 
At very start full speed they made, and foremost nimble Ajax 
Darted ; but close upon his heels divine Ulysses follow'd. 
As when some dapper-girdled wife near to her bosom holdeth 760 
The spindle, whence she draweth out the rove, beyond the sliver ; 
So near Ulysses kept, and trod the very prints of Ajax, 
Ere dust could fill them ; o'er his head, behind, Ulysses panted, 765 
And, eager to outstrip, press'd on, while all the Achaians cheer'd him. 
But when at length the last career they sped to close, Ulysses 
Unto grey-ey'd Athene pray'd within his secret bosom : 

" goddess ! be my good ally, and to my feet show favour." 770 
So utter'd he the word of pray'r, and maid Athene heard him : 
His limbs, — both feet and hands above — nimble she made and buxom. 
But when they quickly were about to dart upon the prizes, 
Athene cheated Ajax' hope, and cast him slipping, rolling, 

Where lay the offal of the bulls deeplowing, which Achilles 775 
Slew for Patroclus : nose and mouth were fill'd with noisome ordure. 
So, earlier in-rushing, came Ulysses muchenduring 

And lifted up the bowl : the ox was won by gallant Ajax, 
"Who, blowing from his lips the filth, in hand the horn enclasped 780 
Of the field-roaming ox, and spake before the assembled Argives : 

745 Thoas, king of Lemnos ; the father of Hypsipyle, mother of Euneus : 
see 7, 469, and 14, 230. 

761. I do not certainly understand the description of the G-reek, but I think 
spinning) not weaving, is intended. 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 411 

" Ye Spirits ! troth, the goddess-maid ruin'd my steps, who alway, 
Like to a mother, stands beside and succoureth Ulysses." 

So spake he moanful : him they all with pleasant laughter greeted. 
After them came Antilochus to claim the prize remaining, 785 

Who, smiling jocund, spake a word before the assembled Argives : 

" My friends ! well know ye, — yet will I pronounce it ; now, as ever, 
The immortals on more ancient men delight to lavish honour. 
For Ajax is in years to me superiour a little ; 

But this one is of elder birth, — an age entire before us. 790 

A raw old man, they say, he is : with him, of all the Achaians 
None easily in speed may vie, except it be Achilles." 

So to Pelides fleet of foot he by his words gave glory. 

Thereat with word reciprocal Achilles him accosted : 

"Antilochus ! thy merry praise shall not in vain be utter'd : 795 
But a full talent now of gold I give, for half the talent." 

He spake, and plac'd it in his hands : and he with joy receiv'd it. 
Thereafter Peleus' son brought in a spear with lengthy shadow, 
And shield, and triplecrested helm, the armour of Sarpedon, 
Which, late, Patroclus stript from him. In theatre he cast them, 800 
And upright stood, and spake his word before the assembled Argives : 

" Two men, whoever bravest are, invite we for these prizes, 
Clad in full panoply, to fight amid the throng of gazers, 

And each of other trial make with point of brass fleshpiercing. 

Then whichsoever earlier may strike the tender body 805 

And reach to graze the cover'd parts, till blood the armour sully ; 
Him with this falchion of Thrace, fair, weighty, silver-studded, 
Will I adorn ; the which I took from slain Asteropseus. 
But let the twain in common bear this armour of Sarpedon, 
And in our tents will we beside with a rich banquet grace them." 

So spake he: instantly arose great Telamonian Ajax, 811 

And after him rose Tydeus' son, stout-hearted Diomedes. 
But soon as, from the throng apart, the twain were well-accoutred, 
In middle of the folk they both met, eager for the combat, 
With dreadful glances. Deep amazement held the Achaians gazing. 815 
But when, advancing each on each, they came to shorter distance, 
Thrice sally did they make, and thrice they clos'd in nearer battle. 



412 THE ILIAD. [bookxxiii. 

Then Ajax struck upon the shield which equal was on all sides, 
Nor reach'd the flesh behind ; but it the corslet still defended. 
But Tydeus' son at Ajax' neck above the mighty buckler 820 

With changeful flash of javelin was alway fiercely aiming. 
Thereat the Achaians, smit with dread lest aught go wrong with Ajax, 
Bade them their rivalry to stay and take the prizes equal. 
Yet to Tydides Peleus' son the mighty sword presented, 

Bearing it, with the thongs well-carv'd, ensheath'd within its scabbard . 

Thereafter, Peleus' son set forth a native mass of iron, 826 

Which the stout king Eetion was wont to hurl aforetime : 

But him in sooth divine Achilles' foot-reliant slaughter'd, 
And on his galleys carried it along with other chattels. 

Upright he stood, and spake his word before the assembled Argives : 830 

" Arise, whomever it may list eke in this game to try them. 
If one, in country far remote, many fat acres holdeth, 

For five revolving years enough of iron this shall yield him 
For rustic needs : from his estate shall none thro' lack of iron, 
Shepherd or ploughman, seek the town; but give supply to others." 835 

So spake he : instantly arose war-biding Polypoetes 
Uprose also that match for gods, the sturdy-soul'd Leonteus, 
And Ajax son of Telamon, and the divine Epeius. 

Abreast they rang'd them ; thereupon Epeius seiz'd the iron, 
And whirling flung it : all the crowd did naught but mock his effort. 840 
Again Leonteus, branch of Ares, vainly threw it, second : 
Then a third throw with sturdy hand great Telamonian Ajax 
Bravely essaying, over-pitch'd the tokens of the others. 

But when the rugged mass was huii'd by warlike Polypoetes, 
So far as may a herdsman fling his crook, which twirling flieth 845 
Amid the kine, so far he shot past all. The Achaians shouted, 

And, rising, the companions dear of stalwart Polypoetes, 
Unto the smoothly hollow ships the royal prize escorted. 

Then for the archers forth he set blue steel in twenty axes ; 850 
Ten double were, and single ten : and on the sands at distance 
He plac'd a blue-prow'd galley's mast, whence with thin cord he fasten'd 
A trembler pigeon by the foot, and bade them aim toward it. 
Whoso might hit it, to his tent should bear the double axes ; 855 



book xxiii.] THE ILIAD. 413 

But if one miss'd the bird, yet shot into the cord his arrow, 
He should the single axes take, sith as his skill was meaner. 

So said he : instantly arose the might of princely Teucer, 

And up rose bonny Merion, Idomeneus' attendant. 860 

Then in a brazen-plated helm the lots were duly shaken, 

And the first lot to Teucer fell. Forthwith he shot an arrow 
Eight forcibly : nor yet did he unto the prince Apollo 
Yow, an illustrious hecatomb of firstling lambs to offer. 

The bird he miss'd, sith as the god begrudged him to reach her; 865 
Yet went his arrow thro' the cord, whereby the bird was fasten'd. 
The cord was sever'd by the shot; so, earthward, down it dangled : 
The pigeon darted heaven-ward, and all the Achaians shouted. 
But Merion all-eager drew the bow, whereon his arrow 870 

Lay fix'd already ; and forthwith unto the prince fardarting 
Yow'd, an illustrious hecatomb of firstling lambs to offer. 
Wheeling aloft amid the clouds he saw the trembler pigeon, 
And pierc'd her thro' beneath the wing : the arrow, back descending, 875 
Stuck in the ground before his feet ; the bird from high alighted 
Upon the blueprow'd galley's mast ; but quick from out her members 
Fleeted the life : she droop'd the neck, and her thick feathers huddled. 
So fell she far away : thereat the people gaz'd admiring. 881 

The double axes, ten complete, to Merion were given, 
And Teucer to the hollow ships bare off the single axes. 

Thereafter Peleus' son brought in a spear with lengthy shadow 
And eke a cauldron new to fire and wrought with artful flowers, — 
A full ox-worth, — in theatre; to honour skilful darting. 886 

Then up did Atreus' son arise, wide-ruling Agamemnon, 
And up rose bonny Merion, Idomeneus' attendant. 

Godlike Achilles, fleet of foot, then spake a word before them : 

" son of Atreus, well we know how eminent thy puissance, 890 
Who art alike in majesty and eke in darting foremost. 

Thou shalt my chiefer prize possess and to the hollow galleys 
Escort it : but the spear we give to Merion the hero, 
If pleasant to thy heart it be : for I do greatly urge it." 

Achilles spake, and won consent from princely Agamemnon. 895 
Forthwith to Merion he reach'd the brazen spear ; but summon'd 
Talthybius, the herald sage, to take the brilliant cauldron. 



414 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 



BOOK XXIV. 

feo was the concourse of the games dissolv'd : forthwith the people 
To the sharp galleys several were scatter'd : they for supper 

And for delight of slumber sweet bethought them ; but Achilles 
Wept, at remembrance of his friend muchlov'd : nor Mm did slumber 
All-vanquishing possess ; but he hither and thither toss'd him, 5 
And of Patroclus alway thought, how manly and how bonny ; 
Rememb'ring all the toils and schemes, which they together ravell'd, 
On many a hero -battlefield or cleaving noisome billows : 

So, tender tears he dripp'd, reclin'd on side, on face, or backward. 10 
Then rising upright off he reel'd delirious, and wander'd 
Along the strand, where early Dawn above the sea was gleaming. 
Then he beneath the chariot would yoke his nimble horses, 

And Hector fasten to the car to trail behind their gallop ; 15 

And, when around his comrade's tomb he three times thus had dragg'd 
Again within the tent would rest, but left his foeman prostrate [him, 
With face cast forward in the dust : yet still for him Apollo 
Warded all outrage of the flesh, in pity for the hero 
Even tho' dead, and all around with golden aegis screen'd him, 20 
Lest that the skin be stript away by oft-repeated draggings. 

So he in mood of fury wrought on godlike Hector outrage ; 
Of whom the blessed gods aloft had pity, as they view'd him ; 
And much they urg'd the Argicide, keenest of spies, to steal him. 
To all the others pleasing was such deed; but not to Juno, 25 

Nor to landshaking Neptune's heart, nor to the Grey-ey'd maiden : 
But alway, sacred Ilium with changeless hate pursued they, 

And Priam's self and all his folk, for Alexander's frenzy, 
Who, when the goddesses approach'd his yard, had Jier approved 
Who fann'd his baleful wantonness, but he the others jeered. 30 

But when thereafter came around the twelfth-revolving morning, 
Then bright Apollo spake his thought among the gods immortal : 

"Cruel ye gods and harmful are : did not upon your altar 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 415 

Hector unceasing burn the thighs of perfect goats and oxen ? 

But now that he is hent in death, heart ye have not, to save him 35 

Tor wife and mother to behold, for child and father Priam 

And for the people; who would quick in sacred fire consume him. 

But unto deadly Achileus ye gods are bent on succour, 

Who neither rightful is in mind nor may his breast be melted, 40 

But brutal as a lion is ; which, urg'd by haughty spirit, 

Sallies with mighty force to clutch the flocks and glut his hunger. 

So Achileus hath pity lost nor bashfulness admitteth, 

Which greatly profiteth mankind or whilom greatly harrneth. 45 

Mayhap another loseth one, who nearer is and dearer, 

Either of common mother born, or e'en his proper offspring ; 

Yet after many a tear and wail he verily remitteth : 

Eor in the breast of men the Eates a patient heart have planted. 

But this man, day by day sithence the pleasant life he rieved 50 

Erom godlike Hector, tieth him behind the car, and draggeth 

Around his dear companion's tomb : whence earneth he not honour, 

But danger; lest, tho' brave he is, we with him be indignant. 

Eor on a heap of senseless clay his fury poureth outrage." 

To him in angry mood replied the whitearm'd goddess Juno : 55 
: Lord of the silver bow! thy word mayhap will meet approval, 
If equal honour ye shall put on Achileus and Hector. 

Yet Hector mortal was of birth and suck'd the breast of woman ; 
But Achileus for mother hath a goddess, whom I nourish'd 

Myself, and fondled tenderly, and gave her as a consort 60 

To Peleus, whom of mortal men the immortals chiefly honour'd. 
And in their wedding all ye gods took part : thyself among them, 
Comrade of rascals ! harp in hand didst feast, alway faithless ! " 

Then cloud-collecting Jupiter addressing her responded : 
" Let not thy anger, Juno, burn against the gods excessive. 65 

Diverse the honour of the twain shall be : but also Hector, 
Of men who dwelt in Ilium, was dearest to the immortals ; 

As eke to me : for-that he ne'er was scant of grateful presents. 
Eor never did my altar lack a well-proportion'd banquet, 

And fragrant fat and streams of wine ; which are our proper honour. 70 
To steal bold Hector, pass we o'er: and secret from Achilles 



416 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

It may not be : for day and night his mother watcheth near him. 
Therefore, if some one of the gods would Thetis summon near me ; 
So might I speak a canny word of counsel, that Achilles 75 

Eansom from Priam may accept and Hector's corpse deliver." 

So spake he : then to bear his word rush'd stormy-footed Iris, 
Who in mid course from Samos' isle to craggy-clifted Imbros 
Leapt in the black expanse of the sea ; and all the waters echoed. 
She to the bottom sank forthwith, like to a leaden plummet, 80 

Which, in the horn of roaming ox, brings fate to greedy fishes. 
In a smooth hollow grot she found Thetis ; and all the others, 
Nymphs of the brine, assembled sat around : she in the middle 
Was weeping for her spotless son, whom Destiny appointed 85 

Upon the loamy clods of Troy far from his home to perish. 
Then Iris fleet of foot drew near, and stood, and spake her message : 

"Thetis! arise: Jove calleth thee, who changeless counsel kenneth." 
Thereat to her responsive spake the silver-footed goddess : [tals 

"And wherefore doth that mighty god command me? with the immor- 
I fear to mingle ; for my heart is full with woes uncounted. 
Yet go will I ; nor shall the word be vain, whate'er he utter." 

Then in a veil, of dusky blue, than which no garb is darker, 
After such words, her form divine she wrapt, and hied to speed her. 
Fleet stormy-footed Iris led : the wave of sea around them 95 

Shrunk; and emerging on the beach they mounted unto heaven, 
And found widesighted Saturn's child seated, and in assembly 
Eke all the other blessed gods eternal sat around him. 
So she by father Jove sat down; for unto her Athene 100 

Yielded the seat : with cheery words eke Juno did to Thetis 
Hold a fair golden cup : but she reach'd out the hand, accepting. 
Thereat the Sire of men and gods to them began discourses : 

"Unto Olympus art thou come, albeit in thy bosom 
Holding inexpiable grief, oh Thetis : I too know it: 105 

Still will I utter, even so, wherefore I hither call'd thee. 

Nine days a controversy hath among the immortals risen 

Q'er city-rieving-Achileus and o'er the corpse of Hector. 

81. The lead, with the end of the cord attached to it, was enclosed in a cow- 
horn (they say) that the fish might not bite it off, with the hook. 



book xxiv.] THE ILTAD. 417 

And some would urge the Argicide, keenest of spies, to steal him : 
But on Achilles here anew I noble honour fasten, 110 

In reverence of thee, and eke thy after friendship guarding. 

Quick to the army hie, and give unto thy son commandment. 
Say, that the gods are wroth with him, and that of all immortals 
Chiefest am I in anger; sith with frantic mind he holdeth 

Hector beside the crested ships, nor gave him back for ransom : 115 
So haply may he fear from me, and yield the corpse of Hector. 
But / will Iris send also to mighty-hearted Priam, 

Bidding him, for his son's release, to seek the Achaian galleys 
And costly presents bear, the which may soothe Achilles' bosom." 

He spake, nor uncompliant found the silverfooted goddess, 120 

And, speedy darting, down she leapt from summits of Olympus, 
Hasting to reach her proper son. Within his tent she found him 
Incessant groaning: all around stood his belov'd companions, 
Busy in diverse diligence, to break their fast preparing. 

They a huge shaggy ram, within the tent, had newly slaughter'd : 125 
But she, his queenly mother, close before himself did seat her, 
And soothing him with hand and voice she spake, his name pronouncing : 

"My child! how long in tears and wail, by sorrow overmaster'd, 
Eatest thy heart away, nor aught to taste of food rememb'rest, 
Nor woman's love? yet good it is in sweet embrace to mingle, 130 
Somewhile: for short to me thy life abideth; yea, already 
Doth crimson Death stand near to thee, and Destiny resistless. 
Now speedily discern my word : from Jove I bring a message, 
To say, the gods are wroth with thee, and that of all immortals 
Chiefest is he in anger; sith with frantic mind thou holdest 135 

Hector beside the crested ships, nor yieldest him to ransom. 
But come; release the carcase dead, and take a costly present." 

Then her Achilles, fleet of foot, address'd in words responsive : 
" So be it! whoso gifts may bring, eke let him take the carcase, 
If so himself the Olympian with earnest purpose urgeth." 140 

Thus did the mother and the son beside the galleys' concourse 
With winged accents, each to each, discourses hold alternate. 
But Jove to sacred Ilium sent Iris, onward urging : 

"Hie! hurry! leave Olympus' seat, fleet Iris! and report thou 

27 



418 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

Within the walls of Ilium, to mighty-hearted Priam, 145 

Our word, that for his son's release he seek the Achaian galleys 

And costly presents bear, the which may soothe Achilles' bosom. 

But let him lonely wend, nor take escort of Troian heroes. 

Companion of his way, alone may go some elder herald, 

The mules and wheeled car to guide, and back unto the city 150 

To bear the hero's body, whom divine Achilles vanquish'd. 

Let not his bosom meditate on death, nor other terror : 

For, such a comrade of his road the Argicide we grant him, 

Who by his side will stay, until he bring him to Achilles. 

But when within Achilles' tent king Priam shall present him, 155 

The hero will no outrage do, but will all others hinder. 

For neither is he fatuous nor thoughtless nor a scorner ; 

And with much sweetness will he spare a suppliant unarmed." 

He spake ; then on her message sped fleet stormy-footed Iris, 
And to the house of Priam came : there din and wailing found she. 160 
The sons around the father sat within the court, distaining 
With tears their garments : in the midst the aged prince lay prostrate. 
Wrapt in a cloak, his shape was mark'd; and round his head & shoulders 
Was dung, which plenteous his hands had newly pack'd together. 165 
His daughters in the chambers wide and his sons' wives were mourning, 
Pierc'd with remembrance of the brave, who, many, lay unburied, 
Bereaved of their tender lives beneath the hands of Argos. 

Then by the side of Priam stood Jove's messenger, and speaking 169 
In accents low accosted him ; but trembling seiz'd his members : 

" Dardanid Priam, courage take, and let not dread possess thee. 
Hither arrive I, no alarms to thee prince, foreboding, 

But fill'd with thoughts of kindliness : from Jove I bring a message, 
Who, far asunder, yet for thee great care and pity feeleth. 
The Olympian doth thee command to ransom godlike Hector, 175 
And costly presents bear, the which may soothe Achilles' bosom. 
But lonely thither wend, nor take escort of Troian heroes. 
Companion of thy way, alone may go some elder herald, 

The mules and wheeled car to guide, and back unto the city 
To bear the hero's bod}', whom divine Achilles vanquish'd. 180 
Let not thy bosom meditate on death or other terror : 



book sxiv.] THE ILIAD. 419 

For, — such a comrade of thy road the Argicide he sendeth, 
Who by thy side will stay, until he bring thee to Achilles. 
But when within Achilles' tent with reverence thou show thee, 
The hero will no outrage do, but will all others hinder : 185 

For neither is he fatuous nor thoughtless nor a scorner ; 

And with much sweetness will he spare a suppliant unarmed." 

So utter'd Iris fleet of foot, and with the word departed. 

Then to his sons the king gave charge, unto the wheeled carriage 
The mules to harness, and on it to bind the wicker basket : 190 
But he himself departing sought his lofty-roofed chamber, 
Perfum'd, of cedar-timber pight, which many a marvel treasur'd: 
There to his consort Hecuba he call'd, her name pronouncing : 

" A messenger of Jove is come, lady, from Olympus, 
Bidding me, for my son's release to seek the Achaian galleys 195 
And costly presents bear, the which may soothe Achilles' bosom. 
But come: thy counsel speak to me, how to thy mind it seemeth. 
For of myself my heart and soul is sorely urgent, thither 
Unto the ships to hie, within Achaia's ample army." 

So spake he: then his consort wail'd, and with reply address'd him: 
"Ah! whither is thy wisdom gone, for which in lands of strangers 
Renowned wast thou formerly and with thy proper lieges. 

What ! meanest thou alone to seek amid Achaia's galleys 
The presence of a man, by whom thy children brave and many 
In deadly strife were slain? in sooth thy heart within is iron. 205 

For if this faithless cannibal shall set on thee his eyen 

And catch thee, he no reverence will show to thee, nor pity. 
Let us now pour the tear apart within our chamber sitting ; 
But he, as forceful Destiny, when to the light I bare him, 

Spun on his thread of birth, that he, afar from his own parents, 210 
The sprightly-footed dogs should glut, beside a man unyielding ; — 
On whom oh might I fasten me, and gorge his inmost liver ! 
So for my child were vengeance ta'en ; whom not the coward playing 
Nor plotting shelter or escape he slew, but forward standing 215 

194. lady. The Greek word is that which I have elsewhere rendered 
f-possessed : it here has its degenerate Attic use. Nearly the same remark 
holds of sorely (for greatly) in v, 198. 



420 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

In front, to rescue men of Troy and ample-bosom'd women." 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, did thus in turn address her : 
" Check not my eagerness to go, lest for an evil omen 
Thyself within my chambers be : nor mayest thou persuade me. 
Tor if of men who tread on earth some other had announc'd it, — 220 
Diviner, sacrificing seer, or priest some temple holding, — 

We might pronounce it falsity, and rather shun the speaker. 
Now, sith myself have heard the god and front to front have seen him, 
I go ; nor shall his word be vain. But if beside the galleys 
Of brazen-clad Achaians my doom it be to perish, 225 

This wish I. Soon as I in arms my son have clasp'd, and vented 
My love of sorrow, instantly then let Achilles slay me." 

So speaking, of the cabinets the beauteous lids he open'd. 
Thence twelve of every sort he took, — robes splendid of adornment, 
Carpets and single-woven cloaks, tunics and pleasant mantles : 230 
Of gold ten talents duly weigh'd he bare : resplendent tripods 
Two brought he out, and cauldrons four; beside, a beauteous goblet, 
A grand possession. Men of Thrace on him of yore bestow'd it, 
When he on ambassy went forth. But now, in zeal to ransom 235 
His much-lov'd son, the aged man spar'd nothing in his chambers : 
And from the porch with railing words he flouted all the Troians : 

" Away, ye rascal worthless rout ! is it, because no sorrow 
At home ye have, that therefore now ye hither come to plague me ? 240 
Rejoice ye, that Satumius to me hath anguish given, 

Tearing from me my noblest son ? but ye yourselves will learn it : 
For by his death the Acbaians will lighter toil encounter 
To slay you. As for me, before these eyes behold my city 245 

Betoss'd and spoiled, oh may I the house of Pluto enter !" 

He spake, and with his staff dispers'd their tumult : forth they hasted 
Before the old man's ire : but he did sternly charge his children, 
Reproaching godlike Agathon and Helenus and Paris, 

And eke Polites good at need, Antiphonus and Pammon, 250 
Dei'phobus, Hippothoiis, and lordly-hearted Dius. 

Unto these nine the aged man address'd command and menace : 

" Hither in haste, ye evil brood ! children who shame your parents ! 
Would that ye all before the ships were slain instead of Hector ! 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 421 

Alas my hapless fate ! for I the noblest sons had gotten 255 

Of all in widespread Troy : of whom not one, I say, remaineth. 

Such were car-fighting Troilus and lofty-hearted Mestor, 

And Hector, who mid men below was as a god, nor seemed 

A child of mortal parents, but some progeny of heaven. 

These Ares hath destroy 'd for me, and left disgraces only, — 260 

Liars and dancers ; harlequins, who daintily can foot it ; 

Men who to plunder lambs and kids are terrible in prowess. 

Will ye not stir you speedily to furbish me a carriage, 

And stow all these my wares on it, our journey to accomplish ?" 

So spake he earnest : they, beneath their sire's upbraidment quailing, 
With sturdy effort lifted out the mules' well- wheeled carriage, 

Dapper and newly fram'd ; and bound the wicker basket on it. 
Then from the peg aloft they took the yoke, for mules adapted, 
Boxen, which rear'd a boss on high, with bridle-eyen furnish'd. 
Together with the yoke, a strap of cubits nine they carried: 270 
This to the polish'd pole theyjoin'd, upon its farthest summit, 
And o'er the staple hook'd the ring : thrice on each side they girded 
Around the boss : then bound it fast, the tongue beneath inserting. 
Next, from the chamber carrying, on the well-polish'd carriage 275 
They pil'd the boundless ransom-gifts for Hector's body destin'd, 
And yok'd the flinty-hoofed mules, — trained to work in harness, — 
Which erst the Mysians bestow'd, as brilliant gifts, on Priam. 
Thereafter brought they neath the yoke the horses which the monarch 
Was wont to fondle tenderly at the well-polish'd manager. 280 

These, Priam and the herald old, both fraught with canny counsel, 
Themselves would harness to the car within the lofty mansion ; 
When close beside them Hecuba came up, distraught in spirit, 
Holding amid her better hand within a golden goblet 
Wine heart-assuaging ; whence to make libation, ere departing. 285 
Before the horses, there she stood, and spake, his name pronouncing : 

" Here ! make to Father Jupiter libation, and beseech him 
That back from foemen ye may come safe homeward ; sith thy spirit 
Unto the galleys urgeth thee, though / be sore unwilling. 

But to the gloomy-clouded child of Saturn raise entreaty, — 290 
To Ida's monarch, who the whole of Troas-land survey eth. 



422 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

Ask for a lucky messenger, — the swiftly-flying omen, 

Which dearest is of fowls to him and mightiest of power, — 

On the right hand : so shall thyself, discerning with thy eyen, 

On this reliant, seek the ships of charioteering Argives. 295 

But if wide-sighted Jupiter his messenger deny thee, 

Then would I surely urge on thee with exhortation earnest, 

Not to the Argive ships to go, however keen thy longing." 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, did thus in turn address her : 
" lady, sith thou urgest it, herein will I obey thee : 300 

Hands unto Jove to "raise, is good, if haply he may pity." 

Then to the keeper of his house the aged man made bidding, 
That she upon his hands should pour fresh streams of holy water. 
And she beside him quickly stood, basin and ewer holding. 
With hands thus cleansed, he receiv'd the goblet from his consort ; 305 
Then, standing in the midmost court, he pray'd and made libation, 
With eyes to heaven upward cast, and his entreaty utter'd : 

" Oh Father Jove, from Ida ruling, glorious and greatest ! 
Grant me, Achilles' tents to reach with pity and with friendship, 
And send a lucky messenger, — the swiftly-flying omen, 310 

W T hich dearest is of fowls to thee and mightiest of power, — 
On the right hand : so shall myself, discerning with my eyen, 
On this reliant, seek the ships of charioteering Argives." 

So he his prayer spake ; and Jove, the Counsellor, did hearken. 314 
Straightway an eagle sent he forth, of feather'd wights most perfect, 
Swift-gliding hunter, dun of plume, which eke they call the Dusky. 
Widely as spread the doors, amid the lofty-roofed chamber 
In mansion of some wealthy man, with massy bolt well fitted 
So far his wings apart were spread ; and, thro' the city darting, 
Eightwise he seem'd to them to sheer : but they, to see the omen, 320 
Were comforted ; thus to them all the heart within was gladden'd. 

Then on the polish'd chariot the aged man did mount him, 
Earnest: so drave he from the porch and echoing piazza. 
On the four-wheeled car in front Idasus skilful-hearted 
Guided the mules with costly load ; the coursers after folio w'd, 325 
Which down the city with the whip the old man plied : behind him 
With many a wail his dear ones niov'd, as tho' to death he wended. 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 423 

When thro' the city they were come and reach'd the open country, 
The train, returning on their path, to Ilium betook them, 330 

His children and his sons-in-law. But Jupiter wide-sighted 
Notic'd the pair, upon the plain appearing : then he pitied 
The aged man, and thus address'd Hermes, his proper offspring : 

"0 Hermes ! sith to thee in chief the ministry pertaineth, 
Companionship with men to make ; and thou, to whom thou wiliest, 
Dost hearken: hie thee ! and unto Achaia's hollow galleys 336 

King Priam so conduct, that none may notice and descry him 
Of all the other Danal, ere that he reach Pelides." 

He spake, nor found his minister the Argicide reluctant. 
But lie straightway beneath his feet did bind the dainty sandals, 340 
Golden, ambrosial : which him alike o'er water carry, 
And o'er the boundless reach of Earth, fleet as the tempest bloweth. 
So took he eke the rod, wherewith the eyes of men he witcheth, 
Whom e'er it listeth him ; else while, the slumbering arouseth. 
This in his hand engrasping, flew the valiant Argus-killer. 345 

Quickly to Troas' land he came and to the flood of Helle, 
And hied to speed him, like in guise to youth of princely station, 
Of age most graceful, when the down doth first the lip encircle. 
But they, when past the mighty mound of Ilus they had driven, 
Halted the horses and the mules, to drink, beside the river. 350 

Over the earth just then the dusk fell, when the anxious herald 
Hermes advancing near beheld, and spake a word to Priam : 

"Offspring of Dardanus, beware! 'tis work for cautious dealing ; 
Near us a man I see, and think he presently will slay us. 355 

But let us with the coursers flee ; or else, with supplication 
Touching his knees, his pity seek, if haply he may spare us." 

He spake, and with appalling dread the aged man confounded, 
Whose every hair upright arose along his flexile members. 
Aghast he halted. Thereupon himself, the god of lucre, 360 

Approaching, seiz'd the old man's hand, and spake salute and question : 

" Whither, O father, boldly thus thy mules and horses guidest 
In dusk of night ambrosial, when other mortals slumber ? 

With heart unquailing meetest thou the Achaians fury- breathing, 
Who nigh thee round about are spread, implacable and forceful ? 365 



424 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

And if, thro' night's swift-rushing gloom, of these should one espy thee, 

Such load of treasures carrying, what then would be thy counsel? 

Neither thyself art young of years, and aged is thy comrade 

The arms of foemen to repel, whoso may rise in anger. 

But I no mischief will on thee inflict, but e'en from others 370 

Will I thy safety guard : for thee to my dear sire I liken." 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, did thus in turn address him : 
"In truth so standeth all the case, dear child, as now thou say est : 
But over me some god, I wis, his hand hath kindly holden, 

Who forward sent such traveller as thee for my encounter, 375 

Auspicious, who might envied be for tallness and for beauty, 
And art of understanding sage and born of blessed parents." 

To him in turn the minister, the Argicide, responded : 
" Yea, verily all this, old sire, discreetly hast thou spoken. 

But come, explain thou this to me, and truthfully declare it : 380 

Dost haply treasures rich and large convey with thee to dwellers 
In foreign land; that of thy stores so much may safe be hoarded? 
Or out of sacred Ilium do all of you in terror 

Hurry to flee, now as thy child, . (such warriour !) is perish' d, 
Signal; who never fail'd to match the battle of Achaia?" 385 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, reciprocal address' d him : 
" Noblest of mortals, who art thou, and of what parents comest, 
That hast so truly named the doom of my illfated offspring ? " 

To him in turn the minister, the Argicide, responded : 
" Of godlike Hector, aged sire, thou askest but to try me: 390 
Oft have these eyes thy son beheld in man-ennobling combat 
Warring; and when against the ships he drave the trembling Argives 
Mangled beneath his weapon keen: and we stood by admiring : 
Sith Achileus our arms withheld, enrag'd against Atrides. 395 

For to Achilles squire am I : one well-built galley brought us : 

And I a Myrmidon am call'd. Polyctor is my father, 

Who doth in varied wealth abound, and, like to thee, is aged. 
Six sons around him still abide, and I to him am seventh : 
And I, when lots we cast, was ta'en hither the host to follow. 400 

Now from the galleys o'er the plain I come : for in the morning 
Ye round the city must confront the curling-ey'd Achaians. 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 425 

For, sitting idle, with annoy they pine ; nor can the chieftains 

Hold back Achaia's ample host, all eagerness for battle." 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, a question spake responsive : 405 
" If on Achilles, Peleus' son, as minister thou waitest, 

Come, all the truth recount to me; whether beside the galleys 
My son abideth yet entire : or haply hath Achilles 

Him to the dogs already cast, piecemeal his members cutting?" 

To him in turn the minister, the Argicide, responded : 410 

" Him, aged sire, not yet the dogs nor hateful birds have tasted : 
But so he lieth in the tents beside Achilles' galley 

Still, as at first. Already now twelve times the morning riseth, 
Sithencehethereisstretch'd: nor yet at all his flesh is rotted, 
Nor eaten is by worms, which feed on heroes slain in battle. 415 

Him verily around the tomb of his beloved comrade 

Achilles draggeth ruthlessly, when heav'nly dawn appeareth ; 

Yet outrage none upon his flesh may rest. A sight of marvel 
Thyself would judge it; how the gore from all his skin is washen; 
How fresh he lieth, not impure ; but clos'd are all the gashes, 420 
Tho' plentiful : for many a man with brazen weapon stabb'd him. 
So do the blessed gods on high care for thy bonny offspring, 
Even tho' life is fled : for, him with friendly heart they cherish." 

So spake he : but the aged man rejoic'd, and sagely answer'd : 
"Oh! good it is, my child, to give unto the gods immortal 425 

Presents auspicious. Never yet, while as my son was living, 
Eorgat he in his halls the gods, who dwell upon Olympus : 
Therefore have they remember'd him, even when death hath conquer'd. 
But come ! this cup so fairly wrought, out of my hand receive thou ; 
And for my rescue and defence, with aid of gods, escort me, 430 
Till I within the tent arrive before the son of Peleus." 

To him in turn the minister, the Argicide, responded : 
"Younger am I, old man, than thee : yet vainly dost thou tempt me : 
Who biddest me from thee accept rich gifts, without Achilles. 
Sorely his anger I revere, and in my heart do shudder 435 

To plunder him ; lest aught of ill may afterward befal me. 
But unto thee as escort, I even to famous Argos 

Would follow pleasantly, — on foot, or on the coursing galley: 



426 THE ILIAD. [book xxiy. 

No spoiler shall on thee be lur'd, disparaging thy convoy." 

So spake the lucre-giving god ; then on the car and horses 440 
Quickly upspringing, in his hands he caught the scourge and bridles, 
And in the horses and the mules inspir'd a noble vigour. 

But when unto the moat they came and ramparts of the galleys, 
Whereat the sentinels around were on their suppers busy, 

Over them all the minister the Argus-killer poured 445 

Slumber; and backward push'd the bolts, and open threw the portals; 
So with the wain and brilliant gifts in he conducted Priam. 
Bat when the tent of Peleus' son they reach'd, — a tall pavillion, 
Which for their lord the Myrmidons had built with beams of larches, 450 
And from the meadow heap'd aloft a roof with rushes downy ; 
But round, with closely planted stakes a mighty yard they fashion'd, 
Whose door a single beam of larch did bar, which three Achaians 
(Three of the common sort) would lift to fasten or to open ; 455 

But only Achileus might raise the mighty bar unaided : — 

There lucre-giving Hermeas unto the old man open'd, 

And for Pelides fleet of foot brought in the noble presents, 

And, from the car on to the earth dismounting, spake his message : 

"Know that from heaven, aged man! I come, a god immortal, 460 
Hight Hermeas ; ^sith as my sire to thee as convoy sent me. 
But truly now upon my path return I, nor will enter 

Achilles' presence in thy train : for troth ! it were a scandal, 
If, face to face, immortal gods salute should make to mortals. 
But enter thou and clasp his knees, and, by his brighthair'd mother 465 
And sire and child, entreaty make: so shalt thou move his bosom." 

Such errand spoken, Hermeas straightway to long Olympus 
Departed : Priam to the ground from off the car alighted, 
And left Idseus there behind : for he the mules and horses 470 

Stay'd to make fast; but the old man straight hied him to the chamber, 
Where sat Achilles, dear to Jove ; and duly there he found him. 
Apart his comrades had their seats; and two alone attending 
Did minister to Peleus' son ; Automedon the hero, 

And, branch of Ares, Alkimus. But newly had he ended 475 

A meal of food and drink; and still a tray remain'd beside him. 
Tall Priam pass'd them both unseen, and stood beside Achilles, 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 427 

And stooping clasp'cl the hero's knees, and kiss'd the hands so dreadful, 
Hands that were many a time distain'd with blood of Priam's children. 
As when within his proper folk one man hath slain another, 480 
He fleeth, smit with thick remorse, unto some stranger people 
And wealthy mansion: deep amaze the hearts of gazers holdeth: 
Eke so amaz'd was Achileus to see the godlike Priam. 

Aghast the others were likewise and each to other looked. 
Then Priam to the hero-king his supplication utter'd : 485 

" Achilles, image of the gods ! thy proper sire remember, 
Who on the deadly steps of Eld far on, like me, is carried. 
And haply him the dwellers-round with many an outrage harry, 
Nor standeth any by his side to ward annoy and ruin. 

Yet doth he verily, I wis, while thee alive he learneth, 490 

Joy in his soul, and every day the hope within him cherish, 
His loved offspring to behold, return'd from land of Troas. 

Mine is a direr fate ; for I the noblest sons had gotten 

Of all in wide-spread Troy: of whom not one, I say, remaineth. 
Fifty I had, when first arriv'd the children of Achaia : 495 

Of these a score complete, save one, came from a single mother, 
My proper queen : the rest were born from women in my chambers. 
Beneath fierce Ares, most of them with knees unstrung are fallen ; 
But him who was my only guard to kin and folk and city, 
Him, fighting for his native land, thyself hast lately vanquished, — 500 
Hector. And therefore now I seek the galleys of Achaia, 
From thee his body to redeem, and brilliant ransom bear thee. 
But, Achileus ! revere the gods, and for my years have pity, 
Thy proper sire remembering : but sadder far my portion, 
Who have endur'd,'what none beside of men on earth would venture, 505 
Unto my lips to raise the hand which hath my children slaughter'd." 

He spake, and in the hero's heart arous'd a love of wailing 
For his own sire: he with his hand repell'd the old man gently. 
Then thickly gush'd the tear from both : Priam, before Achilles 
Laid prostrate, wept in memory of hero-slaying Hector: 510 

Achilles for his proper sire, and afterward alternate 

Wept for Patroclus: from the twain the moaning fill'd the chambers. 
But when divine Achilles' heart was satiate with sorrow, 



428 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

And love of wailing left his frame, from off his seat he started, 

And, pitying the hoary head and hoary beard, uplifted 5 L5 

The aged man, and with address did winged accents utter : 

" Ha, wretched sire ! troth, many a woe thy inmost soul hath suffer'd. 
How hast thou dar'd, alone to seek amid Achaia's galleys 
The presence of a man, by whom thy children brave and many 520 
In deadly strife were slain ? in sooth, thy heart within is iron. 
But come, repose thee on a seat ; and we, tho' stung with anguish, 
Leave we our sorrows anygait unstirr'd within the bosom. 

For, fruit is none of chilling wail; and so to wretched mortals 525 
The gods a life of grief have spun : but they themselves are griefless. 
For in the hall of Jupiter two urns upon his pavement 

With twofold charge of gifts are fill'd, — of pleasant, and of evil. 
These, thunder-loving Jupiter to one man mingled giveth; 

So, such a man of fair and foul alternate' hath his portion. 530 

But if unmingled ill he give, in misery he whelmeth, 

And with vile famine driveth him o'er Earth divine an outcast : 
Thereon to wander, not by gods nor yet by mortals honour'd. 
So eke to Peleus from his birth the gods gave brilliant presents. 
Eor, prince among the Myrmidons, in men and wealth excelling, 585 
Tho' mortal, from the gods he won a goddess for his consort. 
Yet upon him also an ill by heav'nly doom is fallen, 

In-that no ruling race of sons was born within his chambers : 

One only son begat he ; — me short-fated ; who shall never 540 

Comfort his failing years : for I, far from my native country, 
Here sit in Troas' land, a curse to thee and all thy children. 
Thou too, old man, of yore (we hear) a blessed fortune haddest, 
Who didst in sons and wealth excel, from Lesbos, home of Macar, 545 
As far as Helle's endless stream and Phrygia's high country. 
But now, sithence the Heav'nly ones upon thee brought this noyance, 
Alway around thy city-wall are fights and hero-slaughters. 

Bear up; nor droop within thy mind by unremitting sorrow : 
By grieving for thy bonny son thou naught of vantage winnest, 
Nor wilt upraise him, ere thyself some other mischief suffer." 551 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, did thus in turn address him : 
" Not on a seat, Jove-nurtur'd prince ! place me, so long as Hector 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 429 

Uatended lieth in the tents ; but in all speed release him, 

And let me see him with my eyes : and thou, receive the ransom, 555 
Ample, which unto thee we bring. And mayest thou enjoy it, 
Safe to thy native land return'd ; sith thou hast first allowed 
Myself confronting thee to live, and see the light of heaven." 

To him Achilles, fleet of foot, with frowning glance responded : 
"Old man! no more my temper fret. Eansom to take for Hector, 560 
Myself am minded : so, to me from Jupiter descending, 
The daughter of the Ocean Sire, my proper mother, counselTd. 
Yea, Priam ! in my heart I know, nor mayest thou deceive me, 
That to Achaia's galleys sharp some god from heaven led thee. 
For thro' the army mortal none, albeit young and stalwart, 565 
Might well adventure, nor escape the keenness of the watchers, 
Nor lightly of our proper doors the barriers unfasten. 
Therefore, no further stir thou up the soreness of my spirit, 
Lest, tho 5 within my tents, old man, as suppliant thou earnest, 
Still I endure thee not, but sin, despising Jove's commandment." 

Before his word the old man quail' d obedient in silence : 571 

But Peleus' son with lion-spring forth issued from the chamber, 
Not unattended ; for the squires behind his footstep follow'd, — 
Automedon and Alkimus, two heroes, whom Achilles, 

When death had ta'en Patroclus, most of all his comrades honour'd. 575 
These from the chariot and wain unyok'd the mules and horses 
And to the tents the herald led, who crier was to Priam, 
And on a settle seated him : then from the well-tir'd carriage 

They brought the costly ransom in, the price of Hector's body. 
Two robes alone behind they left, and a well-woven tunic, 580 

So might he duly shroud in them the dead, for carriage homeward. 
Then handmaids call'd he forth, and bade to wash the corpse and oint it, 
Uplifting it apart, conceal'd ; lest Priam, piere'd with anguish, 

The sight beholding, vent his ire, and Acbileus be wrathful, 585 

And slay him on the spot, and sin, despising Jove's commandment. 
When thus the handmaids duteous the washen corpse had ointed, 
And round it cast a mantle fair, over a tunic folded, 

578. Well-tir'd. The tires of wheels are made prominent, 5, 725, and 
elsewhere. 



430 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

Himself Achilles thereupon uprais'd it on a pallet, 

And with his comrades lifted all to the well-polish' d carriage. 590 

Thereafter, groaning, panted he and nam'd his dear companion : 

"Patroclus! be not wroth with me, if in the halls of Pluto 
The tiding come to thee, that I have godlike Hector yielded 
To his dear father ; who in sooth paid no uncomely ransom : 
Whereof unto thyself will I a seemly part attribute." 595 

So spake he : then into his tent return'd divine Achilles 
And on a chair of crafty work, on other side the chamber, 
"Whence he had risen, seated him ; and spake a word to Priam : 

"Even as was thy will, old man, behold ! thy son is ransom'd. 
Upon the pallet is he laid : and with the dawn of morning 600 

Thyself shalt see and take him: now to supper pay we duty. 
For even brighthair'd Niobe of needful food bethought her : 

Who by a doom disastrous lost twelve children in her chambers ; 
Six of them, sons of manly age, but six were blooming daughters. 
The sons were by Apollo slain from silver bow; the daughters 605 
By arrowpouring Artemis, with Niobe enraged, 

For-that she deem'd herself a peer to dainty-cheek'd Latona, 
Who but to twain gave birth: huishe a mother was to many. 
So they, albeit twain alone, did all her children slaughter. 

Nine days in carnage lay they, nor was any left to bury : 610 

For Saturn's child to stones had turn'd the folk : but on the tenth day 
The gods of heaven buried them. Then she, outworn with weeping, 
Of food bethought her. Now, I ween, in solitary mountains, 
Amid the rocks of Sipylus, where (say they) are the couches 

Of the nymph-goddesses, who once round Achelous sported ; 6] 6 

There she, albeit turn'd by gods to stone, her griefs beguileth. 
Then, godlike Elder ! eke let us on food bestow remembrance. 
And if to Ilium thou bear thy loved son, thou may est 

After bewail him : many a tear, I wis, from thee he claimeth." 620 

So spake Achilles, fleet of foot ; thereon, upstarting, slaughter'd 
A white fleec'd sheep; and straight his squires did skin and duly dress it, 
And many a canny cutlet slash'd, and spitted every morsel, 
And broil'd them all right cleverly and drew them off perfected. 
Automedon the table serv'd with bread from dainty baskets: 625 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 431 

Himself Achilles, following, the shares of meat apportion'd. 

On the good cheer before them laid the ready hand they darted. 
But when desire importunate of drink and food was ended, 

Then Priam, sprung from Dardanus, admiring view'd Achilles, 
What was his stature and his mien; how like to gods his presence. 630 
Also did Achileus in turn admire Dardanid Priam, 

Gazing upon his good aspect and pondering his sayings. 

But when, with looking each on each, they had their pleasure filled, 
Then royal Priam, peer of gods, did earlier address him : 

"Unto my couch, Jovenurtur'd prince! do now in speed dismiss me, 
That we our spirit may assuage, in slumber sweet reposing, 636 
At last : for never yet my eyes have clos'd beneath my evelids, 
Sithence by thy assault my son was of his life bereaved. 
Thenceforward alway do I moan and brood on countless sorrow, 
Within the cloisters of my yard amid a dungheap rolling. 640 

But now, behold ! I tasted have of food, and wine resplendent 
Adown my throat have pass'd ; the which afore I had not tasted." 

So spake he: then Achilles bade his comrades and the handmaids, 
For the old man a bed to lay beneath the broad piazza, 

Fair purple coverlets above, and carpets o'er them, spreading. 

And eke, soft curlyhaired cloaks to add for night-apparel. 646 

Then, torches carrying in hand, the women from the chamber 
Forth issued, and with busy zeal array'd two pallets quickly. 
Thereon Achilles, fleet of foot, accosted him with banter : 

" Outside my dwelling, dear old man, repose ; lest some Achaian, 650 
High-councillor, may visit me ; such as do alway hither 
(As duty sendeth them) arrive, to ask and proffer counsel. 
But if, thro' night's swift-rushing gloom, should one of these behold thee, 
And bear the word to Agamemnon, shepherd of the people ; 
Then, to the ransom of the dead mightest thou meet postponement. 
But come, explain thou this to me, and faithfully declare it; — 656 
For godlike Hector's funeral how mauy days ye destine ? — 

That I so long myself may stay, and eke withhold the people." 

Then aged Priam, peer of gods, did thus in turn address him : 
" If me thou wiliest to complete the rites for godlike Hector, 660 
By such arrangement, Achileus ! thou wilt my bosom lighten. 



432 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

The fuel on the mountains lies afar ; and we, — thou knowest, 
How we within the walls are hemm'd : and great the Troian terror. 
Nine days would we my son bewail within our secret chambers, 
But on the tenth would bear him forth, and give the folk their banquet. 
The next day o'er him would we raise a monument and barrow : 666 
But on the twelfth, if Fate and Need require, renew the battle." 

To him in turn divine Achilles, foot-reliant, answer'd : 
"All things shall even so be done, old Priam ! as thou biddest : 
For, as is thy petition now, so long the war withhold I." 670 

Thus having spoken, thereupon, to calm the old man's terror, 
He by the wrist his right hand clasp'd. Then, in the porch outjutting 
Slept Priam and the herald old, both fraught with canny counsel. 
But in the chamber closely pight, within a niche Achilles 675 

Slumber'd ; and by his side was laid the dainty-cheek'd Briseis. 

Now all beside, both gods above, and men with crests of horsetail, 
Kept thro' the livelong night repose, by gentle sleep o'ermaster'd. 
But not the lucregiving god might be to slumber captive, 

Within his bosom pondering, how should he from the galleys 680 

Send forth king Priam, aud deceive the sacred band of watchers. 
So right above his head he stood, and spake a word of counsel; 

" Old man ! of ill thou thinkest not, I ween; to see thee sleeping 
Amid the beds of foemen, sith as Achileus hath spar'd thee. 
Now thy dear son hast thou redeem'd, and costly ransom given : 685 
But, for thyself, while still alive, thy sons behind remaining, 
Threefold as much of ransom -price will pay, if Agamemnon 
The son of Atreus know thee here, and all the Achaians know it." 

Hearing his word, the aged man in fear arous'd the herald. 
Quickly for them did Hermeas the mules and horses harness, 690 
And thro* the army guided them himself; nor any knew it. 

But when unto the ford they reach'd of the fair-streaming river 
Xanthus much-eddying, to whom immortal Jove was father, 
Thereat departed Hermeas, to long Olympus mounting. 

But when the saffron-vested Dawn o'er all the earth was scatter'd, 695 
They to the city drave the car with groaning and with wailing : 

The mules, behind, the corpse convey'd : nor earlier did any 
Learn of their coming ; neither men nor brilliant-girdled women ; 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 433 

But first Cassandra, like in mien to golden Aphrodite, 

Mounting the highth of Pergamus, descried her loved father 700 

Standing within his car, and eke the attendant herald-crier ; 

But Hector saw she on the mules, extended on his pallet, 

Thereat she cried aloud with grief, and wail'd to all the city : 

" Women of Troy, and Troian men, come ye, and look on Hector, 
If ye in him alive rejoic'd, to see him come from battle : 705 

For, troth, a mighty joy was he to all the folk and city." 

So spake she ; then not any man within the city tarried, 
Nor woman : for on all of them came sorrow uncontrolled. 
So, near before the gates they met the wain that bare the carcase. 
For Hector, first his consort dear and queenly mother, rushing 710 
Unto the wheeled carriage, tare from off their head the tresses. 
The people weeping stood around. And now the wail for Hector 
Before the gates the livelong day till set of sun had lasted, 
But from his car the aged man spake forth unto the people : 715 

" Open ! and yield my mules a way : but when into his chambers 
I have my dead brought back, then ye your hearts shall glut with weeping." 

Hereat the people parted them, and yielded to the carriage. 
But when within his noble halls they reach' d, then lodg'd they Hector 
Within the perforated beds, and plac'd beside him minstrels, 

Leaders of dirges, who with chant of melancholy ditty 72] 

Fram'd the lament, whilst in accord also the women moaned. 
To them white-arm'd Andromache led off the dirge of sorrow, 
Clasping within her hands the head of hero-slaying Hector : 
! " Husband ! thou in thy youth of days art perish'd ; and hast left me 
A widow in thy halls, and eke thy child a helpless infant, 726 
Whom thou and I illfated gave to light of life : nor deem I 
That he to manhood will attain ; for sooner shall the city 
Be from the summit riev'd : for thou, its guardian, art perish'd, 
By whom of yore its pleasant wives were sav'd, and infant children ; 
Who soon upon the galleys' backs shall ride, and I among them. 731 
But thou, my child, shalt follow me, to work at "works unseemly, 
Toiling to serve some foreign lord : or haply, some Achaian 
To sad destruction thee shall give, down from a tower hurling, 735 
Enrag'd, whose brother Hector slew mayhap, or son, or father : 

28 



434 THE ILIAD. [book xxiv. 

For, on the immeasurable plain, from out the Achaian army 

Full many a man by Hector's skill the sod beneath hath bitten : 

Sith that in melancholy fray not gentle was thy father. 

Wherefore for him the peoples all mourn loud along the city. 740 

So on thy parents, Hector ! thou accursed wail and sorrow 

Hast brought; but unto me in chief hast rueful griefs entailed, 

Nor diddest, dying, from the bed reach out thy hand to touch me, 

Nor whisper any canny word, which I, thy lone survivor, 

Might every day and every night in tears and plaint remember." 745 

So spake she weeping: after her, also the women moaned. 
To them anew did Hecuba lead off the wail incessant : 

" Hector, of all my sons wast thou far to my heart the dearest. 
Thou even to the gods wast dear, while thou in life abodest ; 
And therefore had they care of thee, even when death had conquer'd. 750 
Whomso Achilles, fleet of foot caught of my other children, 
Them was he wont for gear to sell across the cropless billows 
To Samos, or to Imbros ; else to stranger-hating Lemnos. 
But when from thee with lengthy spear the life he had bereaved, 
Euthless he trail'd thee many a time around his comrade's barrow ; 755 
Nor even so to life restor'd Patroclus, whom thou slewest. 

Now in thy chambers liest thou all fresh, as tho' Apollo, 
With noble weapons visiting from silver bow, had slain thee." 

So spake she weeping, and arous'd lament unintermitting. 760 

Then Helen, after them, the third led off the dirge of sorrow : 
"Hector! of all my husband's kin far to my heart the dearest ! 
Lord now to me is verily the godlike Alexander, 

Who unto Troy conducted me: oh ! sooner had I perish'd ! 
Sithence my native land I left, the twentieth year now circleth; 765 
Yet never did I hear from thee an evil word or slighting. 
But if some other might perchance within the chambers taunt me, 
Whether of husband's bretheren or longrob'd female kindred, 
Or e'en thy mother; (but thy sire is gentle as my father, 770 

Alway;) then wouldest thou with words dissuade, and eke restrain them 
Both by thy native nobleness and utterances noble. 

Therefore lament I both for thee, at once, and me illfated, 
Heart-smitten; sith not one beside in all the breadth of Troas 



book xxiv.] THE ILIAD. 435 

Friendly or mild abideth yet; but all that meet me shudder." 775 

So spake she weeping: after her the countless people moaned. 
Then aged Priam to the folk address'd a word of bidding : 

" Now from the forests, Troians! bring fuel into the city ■ 
Nor fear from Argive ambuscade : for verily Achilles, 
When from the dusky galleys back he sent me, gave commandment, 780 
On us to wreak no noyance, till twelve times the Mornhave dawned." 

So spake he: then beneath their wains they yok'd the mules and oxen, 
And quick before the city-walls thereafter were assembled. 
Nine days successive heaped they a boundless store of fuel : 
But when the Morn a tenth time rose to carry light to mortals, 785 

Then they with weeping bare abroad bold Hector from his chambers, 
And lodg'd upon the topmost pile his corpse, for flames to kindle. 

But when the rosy-finger'd Morn, the Early-born, returned, 
Then round illustrious Hector's pile the folk was duly summon'd. 
And soon as they assembling came and all were met together, 790 
First, wheresoe'er along the pile abode the flame in fury, [after 

With streams of sparkling wine throughout they quench'd it ; but there- 
His kinsmen and companions duly his white bones gather'd, 

All plaintive, and adown their cheek did the fresh teardrop trickle. 
These, wrapt in purple raiment soft, within a golden casket 795 

They lodg'd, and to a hollow pit entrusted : but above it 
A broad foundation paved they of mighty stones and many ; 
And on it rais'd a barrow-mound, while watchers sat around it, 
Lest earlier a raid advance of dapper-greav'd Achaians. 800 

Then, when the tomb was rais'd, again they parted ; but thereafter, 
With due celebrity recall'd, to Hector's honour feasted 

Full royally, within the halls of Priam, godlike monarch. 

So tended they the burial . of courser-taming Hector. 



FINIS. 



BY THE SAME TRANSLATOR. 



THE ODES OF HORACE. 

TRANSLATED INTO TJNRHYMED ENGLISH METRES, 

WITH ILLUSTRATIVE INTRODUCTIONS AND NOTES. 

By F„ W. NEWMAN, 

Professor of Latin at University College, London. 

Post 8vo, cloth, 55. 

* # * The Odes are so arranged, that the introductions to them form a 

small continuous history of the period ; and the Notes are 

especially addressed to unclassical readers. 



" There may be different opinions as to the success of this somewhat bold 
experiment ; but there can be none as to the fidelity and elegance of the trans- 
lations, which are beyond all praise. The notes and introductions appended 
to each ode form one of the most thoughtful and scholarly commentaries with 
which a classic could be enriched. To those who have been accustomed to 
read and enjoy Horace, this book will be most acceptable ; while to the English 
reader, who would like to obtain a glimpse of the social and moral life of 
Rome in the Augustan age, there is no volume we could more strongly 
recommend." — Educational Record. 

" The notes are admirable and likely to be of extensive use to the student. 
. . . . Mr. Newman has written a singularly attractive book, which will be 
of infinite use to the student, and of some service to the ripe scholar in helping 
him to the best possible prose English of difficult passages." — Daily News. 

" Prof. Newman's command of pure and choice English is everywhere shown 
to be singularly masterly. It presents a model of good construing, i.e., the 
rendering of the Latin original into the best and closest English equivalents." — 
Weekly News. 

"We most cordially recommend Mr. Newman's volume to all who are inte- 
rested in the subject for the notes." — Literary Gazette. 

{t We cannot do better than express at this point our conviction, that this is 
the best translation of Horace into our language, — and, indeed, the only trans- 
lation of any classical poem which gives the reader an adequate idea of the form 

and manner of the original It is a great achievement to have given 

us a version at all, and not a paraphrase For the first time, an 

unlearned reader is brought face to face with a Latin poet, and sees the Roman 

muse in something like her ancestral attire Many of his metres 

are exceedingly pleasing in our ears — sweet, various, and sonorous." — Pro- 
spective Review. 

" We cheerfully concede to Professor Newman the praise of great originality 
and ingenuity in his translation of the Odes of Horace ; and we only pay him 
a merited compliment when we express a wish that he had extended his labours 
to the Horatian Epistles." — Eclectic Review. 



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